Posts Tagged With: dedication

Well, I couldn’t be happier or more disappointed that June is coming to an end. I’m torn because well I didn’t do so well this month for jogging/daily exercising, logging, and blogging every day.

June 27-29th is all about excuses. Friday night, came home from work and went right out – it was date night! I thought about postponing to later in the evening and getting my workout in but really, I didn’t want to keep my handsome date waiting so I got myself ready and headed out. I had a blast so I’m okay. Saturday, I went to visit my mom and although that didn’t take the entire day, I just made excuses to not run. By the way, it’s been smoldering hot here (even tonight, at 8 pm it is 30°C with humidity sitting at almost 40°C). Sunday came by, I had high hopes. I stepped outside, the hotness hit me, and I had just an absolutely lazy but relaxing day with my sweetheart.

Success comes today, Monday, June 30th! It’s the last day of Juneathon so I just had to force myself to get in some kilometers so I wouldn’t be such a failure. For the final day, I sweat a ton again for 3 kms. That sounds so short now after I read your blogs and how much you guys & gals are running! Oh well. It’s still a lot for me. Although I’d like to consider myself a newbie but I’d say two years of running now, a handful of races, I’m classified as a runner – maybe not a long distance or a fast pace runner, but a runner nonetheless. Thank goodness I have some determination to push myself to complete Juneathon strong!

There you have it. As the final day for Juneathon, I’m going to feature Excuses!
When is it okay to make an excuse to NOT run or not workout? It’s not really an excuse when it’s legit. But…sometimes it’s necessary.

rundmach’s Top 5 Annual Festival of Excuses
1. Sick – If you’re sick, you should probably rest, your body is already working extra hard to fight off whatever infection your body is being attacked by (vomiting, migraines, fevers, bad coughs, etc.). Or maybe you’re a parent and you have a little one who needs you. Don’t beat yourself up because you need to be by their side, they’ll love you unconditionally – you’re showing them they mean more to you than yourself.2. Injury – This should probably be 1 but I think 1 may happen more often. If you’re hurt, don’t push it!! It’s been to take a day or a week off over having to take a lifetime off if you cause more damage. Even if you think it’s minor, you should probably RICE (rest, ice, compress, and elevate).3. Special Events – In this case, weddings, birthdays, or celebrations of any sort. Sometimes these events just take up an entire day and there’s nothing you can do. It’s okay to use these as an excuse occasionally. Of course we should try our best to make time for ourselves which mean running or working out (you shouldn’t always dread it, you should want it).4. Travel/Vacation – I don’t always endorse this one but I think it’s acceptable for others. If you’re on vacation, you’re probably already being more active than sitting at a desk. I prefer to be active on a vacation and be able to run and explore the new areas or go hiking BUT I think it is absolutely your right to take time to enjoy who you’re vacationing with (or even yourself) and spend time engulfing the trip you’re on (the culture, the food, the environment, the sights and sounds, etc.).5. Just Because – Sometimes, we all need that one day off. It’s okay to give yourself some slack. Maybe not as much as I have this month but that’s okay. Don’t beat yourself up because you want a day off to rest or do something else (go for a walk, watch a movie, spend some quality you time, etc.).

Well, I guess it looks like you can find any reason to make up an excuse to not run or workout but that’s all up to you.

Juneathon, it’s been a blast. Thank you all for your support and inspiration with all that you have done bloggers & athletes.
I have done various other exercises (cycling, circuits/cross training) but this is all about running. Not my strongest month at all for distance covered but a successful 54 kms to wrap up the month… Janathon I completed 101 kms… I missed 9 days compared to 0. A 70% success rate versus 100%… I thought you’re supposed to get better over time? Guess I really need to step up next year for Juneathon! How did you do this month? How do you compare to Janathon?

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It seems so odd to be blogging now after a little break (since January, I blogged every day!).

Today, I got to run a Valentine’s 5K Run with runrchatts and for the spirit of this “holiday”, we were tied together! Luckily, there was some slack because I fell behind a couple of times (and he was already running pretty slow for his pace). He’s got another 21 kms to run today to complete his 26 km training run towards a 30k race in March!! You’re doing amazing, keep it up!!

February 9 Run: 37:05 (mm:ss), 5.02 km, 7’23″/km (GPS Watch)

The great news is that this is my fastest 5k in quite some time! I’ve slowed down a lot since this time last year. According to my watch we finished 5k in 36 minutes 56 seconds. We’ll see what happens when the race stats are loaded; yes this fun run where you’re tied together, you are given a chip and timed as a team!

I just wanted to let you all know, that I am doing okay. I am still pretty broken and have my moments. The visitation and funeral were very tough (but when is it not?). I’m still finding my struggles with my family and learning how to stay strong. I have a wonderful second family of friends and bosses, my bosses are the best in the world. People work for people and I definitely stay where I am because of my two bosses. They have been more than understanding and supportive. My friends, (yes, this includes you!), have read/listened to my thoughts and hurt, you have been there for me and provided support and extremely touching words/gestures. I would like to clarify, I do find many of you, other bloggers, to be my friend. I may not have met you but you know more about me than a lot of my family does and I know more about you than I could say about some members in my family too. You are here for me and you understand, you do not judge and you care. Thank you to everyone, from the bottom of my heart, life is too short, cherish every moment.

It seems that “enough” time has passed and I should be able to move on from grieving. That’s what seems logical. BUT I’m not ready to move on yet. I’m not ready to say good-bye and I’m still so broken up with all the thoughts of my Uncle and all of the last memories I have with him and of his funeral. Everyone is different and I guess I am just one of those people who need more time to mourn.

The heads up is that I may still have some pretty bummer posts, I don’t know how long it will take me to not be sad about this whole situation but I will continue to motor on and be the best I can be. With that being said, I have signed up for the The Inaugural Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause 3km Run. I’m very excited about this run!! It’s at the Toronto Zoo and this will be the first one hosted in February with super adorable polar bear medals (yes, there is a Zoo run in August as well but this is only up to a 3km fun run). If you live in Ontario or plan on being in the GTA February 22nd, please join in on the run! Proceeds go to the Toronto Zoo. It’s only 3 kms, and if you’re slow like me or if you choose to walk (basically my pace), you’ll be done in less than half an hour! If you walked the zoo, you’d be walking more than 3km. Oh and your race fee includes all day entry for yourself to the Toronto Zoo.

It does seem like it has been forever since blogging and my thoughts are all over the place trying to get you all caught up!
Last week, after giving up on my running streak after 35 days, I substituted the run with a Spin Class! On February 4th I rode for 51 minutes!! It was super intense and completely different from my first spin class. The instructor this time didn’t introduce herself or give me the opportunity to speak to her before the class (unlike the first one I went too). Both classes were “advanced” and yes, this one surely felt way too hard for me but as long as I kept peddling it didn’t matter much to me. I’d like to continue to spin to get a different activity in that will compliment with running.

I hope you have been doing well yourself, I have not been able to get out to read any blogs over the last week but I do plan on getting caught up this week. Look forward to my likes when I drop by and catch up on your journey!

Thank you to everyone who read my last post and sent me some feedback/support. I’m not going to lie, I’m still pretty sad and right now I don’t really know if it’s all because I’m still “fat” or because I’m just sad my uncle has passed and my family doesn’t seem to be coming together… or maybe I am just taking this more personal than anyone else would have expected? I guess death is a hard thing to move on from and to stay strong for those even closer that are affected (like my aunt, my cousins, and my mom). Am I just being selfish and want to see family so I can get some comfort? Maybe they need their space and I should just let it be. Or maybe I am just sad because some people look at me and think I’m huge and some people think I’m small or healthy… But like I said, despite how I physically look and what people stay I am still not in a healthy weight range. I’m fat, I still huff and puff while running, and I don’t feel very healthy. I could also just be sad because I’m not very happy at work anymore. Don’t get me wrong, I love my job and I love my team, but the rest of my work life kind of frustrates me… Honestly, if you don’t love what you do, go find another job, don’t just get by with what you think is minimal effort when it’s really 0 effort. Anyways, I won’t go into it but I’m a little stressed out with how some people have gotten so far in life when it doesn’t seem like they deserve it at all.

After today’s run, I am calling a quits to the run streak. Not that I’m a quitter and stopping running, but taking a day or so break. My shins hurt while I run and the last thing I want is shin splints, I’ve heard those are a nightmare for a runner. Hopefully, I will get out to a few more spin classes and try a few different machines at the gym. I’m the awkward introvert who doesn’t like talking to people or asking questions, so using new machines takes me a few minutes to figure it out, heh…

February 3 Run: 7:34 (m:ss), 1 km, 7’34″/km (Treadmill)

Well, there’s run streak 35 completed and I’m going to take a break for the sake of me… I don’t want to! I want to keep running but I guess I should listen to my body with all these new aches and pains that I haven’t had before.

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I am in dire need of some help, inspiration, and education. I am a little beat up. Today I ran 1 km again. I’m feeling a pain in my lower right back mostly when I run. It’s very low and very sharp in one spot. It makes me sad because it feels like I’m too fat and it’s causing my body to ache. After a month of activeness and now 34 days of running plus eating healthier, I haven’t lost any weight!! Before you jump to conclusions, I am not in my ideal weight. I’m borderline obese for my height and age. If I don’t continue the work I’m doing, I know I will gain more weight, it doesn’t stop. Some days I don’t feel quite as fat as today. So, I’ve been pretty sad and bummed out over not losing any weight, still feeling jiggly, and aching all over.

I’m determined to keep my run streak going but am I ruining my body by not giving myself proper rest days? But really, what is 8 minutes of running really going to do to me in a bad way? I’m extremely conflicted because I am a very stubborn person, so naturally, I do not want to break this streak because of a little pain or sadness over not losing weight – even if I am questioning it a little bit…

What would you do if you were in my shoes? Continue running even if it is only 1 km a day or take some time off?

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This above all – to thy own self be true. – Edward de Vere (The REAL Shakespeare)

There’s no actual Febathon challenge like Janathon, but I’m too exhausted to think of a cleaver title. I’m just thinking how I can’t stop running each day to continue my run streak. Today is day 33. I had planned on doing 2k but my body just wouldn’t have it. Or maybe it was a little mental too. I am just not feeling right, but I did the run to finish at least 1 km before stopping. I did some of my regular strength exercises after the run as well. Just a few weights and sit ups. Not a whole lot but better than none.

February 1 Run: 8:33 (mm:ss), 1.05 km, 8’05″/km (Treadmill)

I hope to continue my running daily and find new forms of energy. I’m probably just tired and cranky since I didn’t sleep well and get enough rest from all the activity I had done yesterday. At least I got in a Kilometre (maybe I should start thinking in Miles?).

Despite how exhausted I am from this morning’s 11.8 km run, my longest yet, I got back on the treadmill late tonight to run 2 kms. You may think I’m crazy since I got my Janathon Day 31 run in already and set some new records but really, I had one more record to set and I do not want to live in regret. I was 900 metres away from 100 kms. I have officially covered 101 kms for the month of January!!! Not much else to blog about other than my body is tired, treating myself to chicken wings and fries for dinner is not a good idea when you plan on running again in the evening, and I think I finally understand runner’s toenails? I’ve never understood how you would get purple toes and such (I had that a lot from soccer due to the impact). Tonight, while running, all I could feel were both my big toes hurting but only where the toenail is… are they going to go purple??? My toenails aren’t even long. They’re pretty short… It must have been the 1.5 hour run from this morning!… Oh well. Hopefully this is the last you hear of my feet!

I wish I could carry tonight’s run into tomorrow as part of my run streak but I guess that isn’t how it works is it? I have a feeling I’ll be pretty beat up tomorrow and won’t do much other than rest. Any-who, I am super happy I have broken a couple PRs today (nothing in speed, but that shall come soon!).

My strength training exercises weren’t set in stone and I did them after every run. I did not log those in as cross/strength training hours. I need to be doing all of those exercises on a daily basis to get my body moving. I need to incorporate more reps and more variety to tone and strengthen my body. Yay, new plans for February!

I’d like to Congratulate everyone for their hard efforts this month and success! We’re only in January and we’ve started the year so strong. Only 11 more months to keep up the amazing lifestyle we have built. Thanks again for being so wonderful, supportive, and a great human being.

Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later. – Og Mandino

January 31 Run: 1:30:00 (hh:mm:ss), 11.80 km, 7’39″/km (iPod)

Today was my longest run to date in both distance and duration. I was only 200 metres away from 12 km!! I did this all on the treadmill and had I known I was that far off I would have done the extra 200, I had it in me!! Actually, I was aiming for 11 km because my Running Free was telling me I was 10.9 kms away from hitting 100 kms this month! I joked yesterday and earlier today that I should do 11 kms just so I could hit 100 for the month. I didn’t want to wait until next Janathon or do it next month when it’s 3 days less! I got down to my treadmill and set it to 90 minutes, that should give me plenty of time to complete 11 k and if my body couldn’t that’s okay too. I also set it to 90 minutes so I would beat my longest run time on my Nike+ from last year (1 hours 26 minutes and I think it was 10.6 km). It was time to set a new record for the new year! Well I was in quite some excitement even knowing I only missed 200 metres from 12 k… I plugged my gadgets into the computer and uploaded… Oh no, Nike+ says I’m 900 m away from 100 km for the month, what the frig?! Ok ok.. calm down, Nike+ doesn’t always seem to add up well… Where’s my notebook, let me manually add these up… Oh no, I’m still short!… Okay, let me type this up on a calculator and add it up… Oh no, now I’m short 1.2 kms… What’s going on?! Back to the Running Free site to review the analysis…. My Wednesday January 29th run, was submitted twice!!! How could I?!?!?! 2.76 kms extra added in that were not earned… It is still early in the day and if I’m not fully broken, I will get on the treadmill again to do 2 kms so I can claim my 100 km month!!!

Janathon Day 31 has been completed (even if I’m not fully done). I got in my planks (check out Janathon PJ Off-Side-Plank here!) plus my regular mini strength work outs along with a long run. The run was 9 minutes on (5 mph) and 1 minute off (4 mph) for 90 minutes. Could it really be over already? This community has been so touching, inspirational, and supportive, I don’t want it to ever end! I even signed up for twitter (@rundmach) just for Janathon and I’m not even sure if I’m using it right! I don’t want this to stop so I’m just going to keep working out every day and keep blogging as much as I can. I don’t know if I will commit to blogging every day but I will commit to being active. Besides, I’m at 32 days of running now, let’s see how far I can go!

This month has taught me so much. I have followed the lives of so many alike and so many I adore. I have gone from strength to strength. I have thought about fellow Janathoners in my regular day and wishing them well. I am extremely thankful for each and every one of you who follow my blog, who has been active, who inspire me, who like my posts, and who is there for me. I am touched and sad this is over. I am no longer just an I. We have been through so much this month and I couldn’t be happier to have been part of this journey. We have put in all of our time to complete all 31 days and as the site says, we are all winners, and we should all be proud:

What do I win?
You win smugness and immense self-satisfaction.

We have succeeded!! Ran every day this month and was active! So, this is not the end. This is really just the beginning and I’m sure many other blogs I read today will be of the same esteem. We are all superstars!! I can go on about how grateful I am for this month and how YOU have helped me get to where I am today. I won’t ramble on but know that each of you mean sometime special to me and I’m very happy that I get to share my life with you. I’d also like to send me gratitude and Thank you’s out to Cathy @ JogBlog and everyone else who is involved with organizing and keeping this alive!!!

For now, I need to go shower and get on with my day. Don’t be surprised if you see another blog today covering another km that I need so I can hit 100 km for the month.

I survived my first spin class today!! Janathon Day 30 has been completed with a double work out. A 9 am spin class and a short 9 pm running session (plus the regular strength exercises after the run). My bottom hurts a lot, particularly what I’m told are the sit bones that hurt a ridiculous amount already! The spin class was pretty awesome. I was told it was no beginner class and would be challenging but I could go at my own pace and rest when I needed. I followed the regular “rest” period as everyone else for the 45 minute duration of the class. I ended up being on the bike for almost an hour – showing up early and starting to spin away to get warmed up. My bum hurt before the class even started! I also had cycling shorts on with the padding. I’m a little shocked a lot of ladies in the class (and guys – but they can hide it better under shorts), didn’t have padded pants or shorts on??? How do they survive? My friend who came with me to spin class (he’s done it before), is planning on going back tomorrow morning! Do I dare join him?? I said I am interested and in, but we’ll see how I feel in the morning. My legs felt a little off after getting off the bike but I’m okay now. Hopefully, these classes pay off and I see my body shed a few of those stubborn pounds that don’t want to come off.

The YMCA offers a lot of classes with membership or drop in rates. The spin class was very well taught and I think the instructor was awesome. She was very nice, not intimidating at all, taught me how to set up my bike (and move it – yes, I was the awkward person trying to roll my bike over from the back of the trainer), and she kept everyone motivated. I like her, too bad she only teaches day classes – I’ll be going to evening ones after work.

The class really helped me out to start off the day today. I wasn’t able to think at all, only listen to what the instructor said and force my legs to keep motoring on through all those hills and fast speed intervals. It took a very long time to get to bed and having to wake up early, I didn’t sleep all that much last night. I was finally able to let my mind go into no where land thanks to the spin class.

This image basically sums up how I got through the class. Just keep going – persevere! Although I may not have been going nearly as fast as any of the other spinners (cyclists? What’s the correct term here??), I was giving it my all. I had set the tension to what were tough for me and when I thought I could handle more, I’d turn it up a notch (but really, I couldn’t handle that notch very long).

I am sad and it’s hard to ignore sad thoughts but overtime it will fade… I not sure how long I will be in morning. I’ve just been a bit quieter in thoughts and sitting at home, cleaning, resting, just being. I eventually got up to continue my run streak – Day 31 now completed with a steady 5 mph run for 16 minutes.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. – Unknown, From an Irish headstone

January 29 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.75 km, 7’19″/km (iPod)

Janathon Day 29 has been completed with a 20 minute run. I warn you today’s post is going to be a little depressing and scattered. I can’t really keep my thoughts together as my initial thought was to run for 60 minutes or really as long as I possibly could… I will try to lay out the events of my day that lead me to thinking all the running in the world will make me feel better… I don’t expect you to read all of this, I just need an outlet right now and this is all I have.

Today, I stayed home. Taking a mini stay-cataion today to Friday and Friday is the Chinese New Year where I was planning to go home and celebrate with my Mom and go visit my Uncle to have some celebrations, laughed, and food. Early in the morning, I headed over with a friend to the YMCA here to take a tour of the facilities. Yes, I have a treadmill but I’ve been thinking about trying out a spin class and maybe start swimming. Woah, those are all the triathlete sports! I’m not sure if that’s where I’m heading since I dread road bikes but I have heard so much great things about spin classes and losing weight. I didn’t sign up for a membership yet since this facility offers a 7 day free trial. I signed up and tomorrow morning at 9 am I will be doing my first spin class (Cyclefit as they call it). Scared and anxious, I hope it turns out well because I’d like to drop a few pounds!! Plus, if I do sign up for the facilities, I can try a run on the treadmill there and compare it to the treadmill I own (for a comparison of the distance and pace). After registering for a free week starting tomorrow, we stopped a local bike shop for him to check out some road bikes. It was 1:10 pm when I noticed at 1:08 pm I missed two calls from my mom. I immediately called her back (my mom doesn’t call me during the day unless it’s an emergency)… It was… I don’t want to get into major details but my mom’s brother, my uncle, passed away at noon today. He had cancer. He outlived cancer for longer than he should have. I just saw him Saturday at our family dinner at his house! I was planning to visit him this Friday to wish him a Happy New Year!…. I headed home straight away… called my brothers… Curled up in bed and cried… and cried… and continued to be sad. I ordered bad food…. I curled up on the couch… I moped around… I kept thinking, the best thing I can do is just get on the treadmill and run as much as I can so I can get lost in the run. Really?! That does NOT work. You cannot run from your problems and no matter how many miles you put in, you cannot bring someone back. My thoughts keep going back to my aunt, my wonderful aunt… my cousins… my mom…. I pushed my speeds up to even 6 mph for the last 2 or 3 minutes until I just stopped because all I wanted to do was drop and curl up. I need to mourn before I can force myself to move on but all I want to do is force myself to move on. If I continued to run, I’m sure I would have fallen flat on my face. I kept thinking about my uncle and thoughts of him. Thoughts of how he was the one person of all my aunts and uncles to connect with me in any way. We’ve even chatted over running when I told him I had started running, he told me how he would go for runs before he got sick… I pushed on and kept pushing the pace higher and higher. I know that he loved me. I thought about my sweet aunt who loved my uncle more than anything. My aunt who showed her unconditional love for him and cherished him. My family may not be the closest family but this is the family I have and I don’t want to lose anyone in it. I love them all even if we only see each other once a year or only chat online every now and then. I thought about how much I wished running could take away the sadness and make everything better. How badly I wanted to shut my brain off and just run. I should be happy that my overall run averaged a pace of 7’14″/km which is pretty darn fast for me right now. I’d ideally like to be running a 7 minute kilometre but really, I’d just like my uncle back. That was my day. I am still going to go to the spin class tomorrow and hope for the best. Sorry for babbling on…

Burrrrrr! It is cold outside! It’s not quite the temperature that’s cold, it’s the wind! It’s still going up to gusts of 50-54 kms! Thank goodness I have my treadmill! Yup, I’m saying it again, I like my treadmill. Today’s run was pretty great! I did what I’ll call an interval run, 1 minute on and 1 minute off. 5.3 mph on and 5.0 mph off. That’s a 7’02″/km on pace and a 7’27″/km off pace each minute. I did pretty awesome!! It was getting annoying having to click up up up, down down down every 60 seconds BUT it was so worth it because I just felt so strong being able to run 5.3 mph and having 5 mph seem “slow”. This run was still challenging but it was amazing!

Here we are with Day 28 completed for Janathon with a 2.11 mile run and some strength training exercises. To continue on with my 29 day running streak, I have registered for 2 additional runs for this year. My running journey continues with a Valentine’s 5k on February 9 and a 10k in the Toronto Yonge Street 10k run on April 13. I am now up to 4 races registered for this year. Ideally, I’d like to be doing 1 a month but there are none in January so I’ll count my December 31st Resolution run as my January run. Besides, Running every day for Janathon is a big race on its own!

After signing up and looking at all these races, I would really like to be doing some charity work but I just don’t know how? I’ve exhausted my friends and co-workers over the last year. How do I go about asking for more donations? I know I can volunteer my time but I don’t feel like it’s as valuable as what the money can do for finding a cure, providing medical support, spreading awareness, and supporting those who really need it. If you are fundraising, please let me know, I’m not very well off but I would love to support a good cause.

I’m still looking for motivation to run harder and stronger. Here’s the speech I listened to today and found the video online:

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. – Helen Keller

January 27 Run: 25:00 (mm:ss), 3.12 km, 8’01″/km (iPod)

It’s time to take it back a notch today and do an “easy” run. Almost everything I’ve read recommends shifting between easy, tempo, speed, and long slow distance (LSD) runs as well as adding intervals and fartleks into these runs. Having a variety of runs is supposedly the best way to lose weight while running but also increase your strength in running. When I was doing the running for weight loss program for a couple of weeks, it definitely worked for keeping weight off. Plus, with the major distances I did for myself over the weekend, I needed a shorter run tonight. My legs are a little tight. Although I did not do a walk run interval today, I kept a steady, “easy”, 4.7 mph for the entire duration of the run. Why do I keep putting easy in quotations? Because it’s still not easy! Running at 4.7 mph or 5 mph, it seems about the same challenge in terms of effort exerted. No biggie though, I completed 25 minutes of steady running for Janathon Day 27!

Booyah! 28 day run streak so far! Only 4 more work outs before Janathon is over. Can we do a Febuthon? Is that a thing?

That’s how I feel! Excited after running and happy to be alive, happy that I have a wonderful life, and happy I run. All of this after a puzzling Monday… I didn’t enjoy my Monday too much at work – too much stuff going on (nothing out of the ordinary) but I guess I just wasn’t ready for it. Mondays are extremely mentally exhausting sometimes, a big go go go and I don’t think I had my head in the game. Now, it doesn’t matter, I ran, it’s okay! 😀

The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow. Don’t give up! – Robert Tew

January 26 Run: 50:00 (mm:ss), 6.52 km, 7’41″/km (iPod)

Well hello Sunday Runday & Readers! Yesterday, I was super stoked to have finished 5 k and said I wasn’t hurt by not hitting 6 k because the time ran out. Honestly, I wasn’t, but because I knew I still had it in me, I’ve been thinking I want to do 6 k next. For Janathon Day 26, running streak day 27, I completed a 6.5 k run (4 miles)! I went for a 1.5 km walk before this outside just to get some fresh air, plus it’s snowing and not ridiculously cold out today but the wind still hurt. I had a mini foam rolling session this morning to stretch out my tight calves/quads from yesterday. After the run I completed my regular strength exercises.

I found that the run went by pretty quickly today after I got over the fact that I hung up a motivational poster in front of the treadmill crooked… I have some OCD with certain things and seriously I couldn’t look at it any more. I changed my iPod from music to motivational speeches again and listened to the one I posted yesterday twice during today’s run. If anyone knows where I can find this BEST Workout Motivation in just audio to download, that would be fantastic! I even put on the video today and that really got me pumped! I’ve tried listening to podcasts, watching tv shows / documentaries, and regular music but nothing has worked like this video compilation. My last session (a 5 minute run after intervals of 8:1), I increased speeds from 5.2 up to 5.7 mph! I’m actually starting to like my dreaded treadmill again!!! It’s telling me I’m running at paces I find amazing for me and helping me push myself to run long and further than I would outside. This must have been how I felt last winter when I built up to running 10k’s on the treadmill! Any ways, it does get a little boring on the treadmill but today I really found listening to different motivational speeches really got me through the run quicker than when I was switching to songs.

Do you have any recommended motivational speeches that are heart pumping?
Any recommendations on what to listen to while running?

Boy, if my treadmill could do the things I thought paying $800 for a machine would do, I would have completed 6 km. I know I complain about the treadmill a lot but I really wish I could just add 5 minutes to a current session without having to wait for it shut down, restart, and reselect all my run settings. I actually had set out to complete 5 km, so I set the treadmill to 45 minutes giving myself a good little buffer if I decided to run “slow”. My run felt pretty great! I steadily increased my pace from 4.8 up to 5.5 mph throughout the run. At each 8 minute interval, I had a 1 minute walk at 3.9 mph.

What drove me to running up to 5.5 mph? Well, You’ll have to thank motivational speeches as cliché as they are, they work! I was skimming through some online radio workout stations while running and I hit skip a LOT even on my own playlists. I came across this in a station: BEST Workout Motivation (warning, 9 minutes long and you will want to be a beast after this!). It wasn’t anything I haven’t heard before but I think around the 5 minute mark, the “WHO AM I?! I AM A CHAMPION” got me really really pumped up and that’s when I went from 4.9 to 5 to 5.1 to 5.3 in 1 interval. Nearing the end, with I think 4 minutes left, I looked at the actual distance and realized how close I could be to 6 km. I knew I wouldn’t hit it with my pace (I even knew 5.5 wouldn’t get me there), but I had to up the speed and get as close as I can in the 45 minutes I had set. I’m not heartbroken over not hitting 6 because that wasn’t what was going to define my successful run today, 5 k was the goal and I have achieved it. This doesn’t mean I’m settling for less either.

After the run, I continued with some more of my strength training exercises. The nice kind of sore happens almost every morning in my upper back / shoulder blades. I’m working on bringing sexy back! Haha.

So, here we are, the last week of Janathon, with Day 25 completed early in the day. Yes, I went for my run before noon today! I have a family dinner tonight and well that will go late and include a lot of food. I did some cleaning and organizing in my basement. Prepped some of my fruits into snack sized containers. I also woke up at 7 am and didn’t get back to bed so I’ve had a pretty productive day so far! With only 6 more days of Janathon being the “reason” why I’m running, I have already been running for me but I like having Janathon be the excuse; plus it just seems easier to let myself down than an entire community! However, I am working at changing that mentality and working on focussing on me! 😀

Hello, Janathon day 24! I have completed you and continued my 25 day run streak! Boy does it feel good. I would love to be running more but really, the treadmill does get pretty boring. Today, I even contemplated running outside, I went outside for a walk to test the weather. About 300 metres out, I turned back home. The crazy wind-chill warnings weren’t a joke, up to 77 km/h winds!! I was bundled up and only my eyes were exposed under my eyeglasses. My eyes hurt from the wind so much I decided I would turn around and settle for the indoors.

It’s been over a week since I’ve run 5 k and I’m jonesing to get another 5 k in ASAP! I really wanted to make tonight the night after freshly silicone-ing up the treadmill but once I got ready, I decided I would continue to take it easy until I felt my body is 100% ache free. Man, am I getting old? I have to watch what I eat, exercise more, and weight is so much harder to shed. Is this what it’s like choosing a 9-5 desk job? I guess I should have already came to this conclusion much earlier. First 3 years in this job and I gained 30 pounds. Luckily, this year I’m halfway in and I haven’t gain any! *Whew* This running and watching what I eat must actually be working. Sometimes I envy those who get to be move active as part of their job even if they don’t realize it; for example, a teacher is on their feet most of the day, a retail associate (what I was doing before I sat my keister down for 8 hours a day) is on their feet most of their day, doctors, dentists, engineers, vets, contractors, and the list goes on of jobs where you are constantly moving. The other day at work, I sat down at 9 am and didn’t get up until 2:30 pm! I had my food and water at my desk with me so I didn’t even realize that I never even stood up for over 5 hours. I only ended up getting up to use the restroom! Isn’t that a little nuts? That’s 5 hours of sitting and all I’m moving are my fingers, typing away, analysing data, staring at a screen and giving my brain a major workout but my body a major setback. I normally try to ensure I get up multiple times a day – especially to refill my water, but to make sure I’m moving! So, how do I cope and get more exercise in? At one point I was trying to run during my lunch hour instead but really, who wants to sit at their desk all sweaty for the latter half of the day? There’s meetings and vendors to meet, no one wants to see an after run me in a professional setting.

What kind of job do you have? Is it active?
Do you have a 9-5 desk job? How do you cope?

Oh and one more thing, I saw this image the other day and it made me laugh because it’s pretty true.
Except for those of you who can buy healthy foods on a budget and learn to make it quick, the bravo!
So, today I saw this video and it’s pretty awesome! This is 200 Calories:

Today’s run was just a little scary. After yesterday’s run, my treadmill notified me I had to lube up the belt before I could run again. Well, I forgot this until it was 9 PM and I was all laced up and ready to go. I decided to bypass the notification and go for a more focussed 20 minute run. Why focused and why scared? A while back I was running on my mom’s treadmill (Frustrated Disappointment – woah July 2012!), I broke it! I broke my mom’s treadmill because she only used it for walking but when I visited her, I would run on it. After trying to figure out what was wrong, we were told that the treadmill burned out because she never greased it up and my running caused it to overheat and die. So, the run had to be focused just to be prepared if the treadmill decided to just shut off on me and scared because it’s scary when a treadmill just stops in mid-step. I am a little frustrated with reading my post from 2012 seeing that I was running at a 6 minute km pace and right now, I struggle to get a 7:30…. Add 2 minutes to the time I ran today, in 2012 I covered almost an entire km more… that’s so sad… OH but wait, my notes say that I was running at a 4.5 – 5 mph pace on the treadmill, that’s what I’m running now?! I wish I had taken note of what the treadmill read instead of my iPod. This must have been before I realized that my iPod had never calibrated the right distance or pace and is all hooey!!!

I completed my Janathon day 23 run which is my 24th day run streak! I’ve also been keeping up with my strength exercises after the run too!! I find it a lot easier to get these done when my heart is pumping after a run. I know I may not be running at what other runners are in terms of pace and distance, but hey, I’m still doing something that the old me would not have! I can’t believe I’ve gotten off my butt every day for 24 days and completed a physical activity outside of my regular routine of work, eat, sleep, repeat. It’s pretty awesome that right now I can say my regular routine is eat, sleep, work, run. Oh and showering is important now too I guess! Haha!

Check it out, my cycling today was about the same distance as yesterday but 2 minutes faster. I aimed to bike for 10 minutes and didn’t think about pace either. My knee is feeling much better. Thanks for all the tips fellow bloggers! Today, I ran with a knee brace/tensor and it felt good. I ran pretty slow and it was tough keeping the treadmill at a slower pace but I knew it would be good for me. I still worked up a sweat!

I’m exhausted right now so this will be a short one and not very inspirational, sorry… Pretty long day too with a lot of focus/thinking/analysis done. Great day for being productive and getting work done but very tiring. Off to bed as I could barely stay awake after 4 at work. On a happier note, it’s been 23 straight days of getting a run in and Janathon day 22 completed. Pretty awesome! 🙂

As you can see, for Janathon day 21, I have completed a slow 1 kilometre run with a slow 12 minute session on my stationary bike. Not only was this due to coming home from running errands after work and having dinner at 8 pm, but because my knee has been hurting since last night’s run. I’ve had this sharp pain in my right knee that can’t be stretched out and relieved. When it’s not a sharp pain it just feels dull and irritated… I’m guessing it’s from the huge jump up in speed and possibly running at a higher incline. If it wasn’t for my determination to continue my running streak (now at 22 days!!), I would not have run at all (it’s not logical to right now with this sort of pain)…. Well, the biking didn’t help too much either as that enhanced a pain on the outside of my knee that I didn’t experience before but is now throbbing as it hurt every pedal…. I’ll be taking the pace slow again and see what I can do to make this better – I may even slow it down to an 8’30″/km tomorrow! Tomorrow, I plan on grabbing a knee tensor after work to wrap up my knee. Hopefully this will help, as well as help while I’m on the treadmill. I sound like such a whiny pants but I’m actually just hoping that my sad descriptions of my pain will spark some interest or experience you may have had that you can share with me.

I’ve also never tracked my cycling on a stationary bike. I’ve never been a big bike person…….*gasp*….. okay world…. Here’s one of my deepest secrets…. *deep breath in*….. I can’t really ride a bike! Yup, there I said it, it’s out there… So, I can ride a bike forward on flat road and that’s about it. I can’t even tell you when the last time I rode a real bike outdoors was… I can tell you that the idea of being on a road bike going downhill terrifies me more than being in a room full of snakes. Well, my overall point of all of this is, I’m not even sure what the standards are? Is this like Running where I run at my own pace and I compare myself to myself or is there supposed to be a certain speed or distance covered within a time range that certifies a good effort work out? Are there certain stats I should be looking at or focussing on?

Overall, I am proud of myself for getting in my daily dose of activity. I did skip the strength exercises on the stability ball but I did do my weights. Anything that had to do with legs I kind of skipped tonight just to play it safe.

It is now way past my relax/bed time so off I go to rest and elevate my leg (does that even work for the knee?).

A dream only becomes overrated when not pursued by the dreamer. – Courtney Hickman

January 20 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.72 km, 7’25″/km (iPod)

Janathon day 20 has come and gone in a flash! Boy, Mondays always seem to fly by… not to mention coming home, making dinner, then spending over an hour on a puzzle and realizing it’s 8 pm, I should run! Yes, I said it, I’m addicted to this puzzle I got not too long ago and I can’t stop!! I’ll stop when it’s done. It is the most relaxing thing ever after a day at work. I’m addicted!!! Hmm… I feel the same about running yet I have more motivation to give an hour to sitting on my butt to work on the puzzle instead of get outside to run. *Sigh* … Right, back to my original point, it’s day 20! There’s only 11 days left to Janathon… Who’s going to keep my accountable after these 11 days? Myself??? I guess so… Hopefully with your help!

Today’s run included a higher incline for the first 10 minutes, then a faster pace for the last 10 minutes. I got up to 6.2 miles per hour for the last 3 minutes!! Pretty awesome if I say so myself. I’d love to be able to run 6.2 miles per hour as my regular pace!! That would be my ideal ultimate fast pace. It’s a 6 minute kilometre and may seem slow to you but that would put me almost 2 minutes faster than my average pace. This was such an awesome run I wanted to run more but was feeling the pain in my right knee and ankles so thought I’d stop when the time stopped. I still find it weird that my treadmill doesn’t allow me to add time to a current workout to extend the run… I have to wait for it to complete and the reset before I start over and choose all the options all over again. Wow, enough side-thoughts… I kept the momentum of the high pace running and then did my strength training exercises in ultra fast speeds. You know, you’re working out really hard when you’re only on 20 sit ups on an exercise ball and you can’t decide which hurts more: my thighs from holding them firm on the group and perpendicular or my core from the sit-ups all the way down to my knees. Overall, I had a good half hour work out.

My long-term goal is to be around to run long-term. – Jeremy Dobrick, Runner’s World

January 19 Run: 25 (mm:ss), 3.30 km, 7’37″/km (iPod)

Well, I didn’t go out today… It was snowing a bit earlier and pretty cold out so I stayed in and did laundry instead! I actually quite enjoyed my Sunday; I’m pretty sure I’d be an awesome hermit (inside my own home) if that choice was logical. I got around to my run in the evening since I’m now accustomed to it. As much as I mentally kept trying to get myself ready for a run during the day, I couldn’t get into it. On the plus side, at least I can still get myself into the workout spirit even if it is in he evening time.

Tonight I completed Janathon day 19 with my regular strength training exercises and a 25 minute run at a gradually increasing pace (from 4.8 miles up to 6 miles per hour) at a slightly higher incline than my norm.

I’m not going to lie, Bridesmaids is on TV and it’s a little distracting.
Lucky for me, my blog is my personal journal and well I encourage you to share my personal thoughts and feelings.

I love this blog, I love your blogs, and I love being able to keep myself accountable here without being judged.

Since it’s on commercial break I can now refocus and tell you about my new goal for this year. I know I’ve been talking about doing my first half marathon but for 2014, I have decided I’d like to complete a 10 miler race and a few more 10Ks under my belt before jumping into a half marathon.

I haven’t found any 10 milers that I am crazy about fundraising for… There is one not too far away from where I live and the treats are all chocolate! The only negative is this race is on Mother’s day and I don’t think my Mom would want to spend the day with me for my run, I’d rather me spending the day with her, for her.

Have you ever ran a 10 miler race? I can’t find that many…
Are there any in Ontario, Canada you would recommend?

I may have wished for too much yesterday saying “Better Sore than Sorry” because today, I am SORE! I guess I’m not sorry at all but that extra speed, the little extra push for some more squats, and probably lack of stretching has caused my legs to be pretty sad today. When I stepped on the treadmill tonight (yes, don’t remind me that I was too lazy all day to run out in the sunlight), my quad/IT band area was still hurting quite a bit. Despite the stretching and foam roller session I did today to relax my legs, I felt like I was in a bit of pain. So, run it off! I decided I would cut my run short and run 1 km then get on the bike; the last thing I want to do is hurt myself and have to stop running all together for a while. Well, luckily, the pain subsided as I kept running so I completed the 20 minutes I had initially set out at what I’ll say is a pretty good pace for being in pain. On the crazy side today, my Nike+ watch which normally underestimates how much distance I’m doing on a treadmill decided it would bump up my self-esteem by saying I ran 2.74 kms at a 7’20″/km pace. I know, I can’t really trust the watch unless I’m out with GPS on (even though the point of the watch with a foot pod is for indoors)… Enough with the stats. I’m sore and so I did my strength exercises afterwards with some stretching. I did skip the squats today because well, I did 2 or 3 and my legs were screaming at me. I opted to do my squat reps in rotating sit ups.

#MegsMiles – Today’s mile was also ran for Meg. I won’t go into much detail other than my heart sinks each time I hear a tragedy like this. My heart goes out to her family. Find out more here.

Janathon Day 18 Completed! 13 Days left but really, I hope it turns into a life time of habit!

I missed a shout out yesterday for Nick (Striding Towards Life) who’s doing a double-header, a 5k done today and his first marathon tomorrow! Can’t wait to read all about it! Good Luck Nick!!

Tomorrow, I have to figure out how to run in the morning as I have plans in the evening in which I won’t be home until later. I have been doing all my runs during the evening for quite some time now and shifting to the morning didn’t work when I tried to get out of bed today. Here’s to hoping my legs are happy in the morning and I’m not a big lazy bones.

Happy Friday! I think I’m back to normal!! Nothing like retail therapy and cheesecake to get cured from any kind of sadness, deprivation, sickness or moodiness. Today I took the day off with a friend and drove over to Buffalo. If Janathon counted walking for over 4 hours, I would not have done a run. We spent most of the day shopping and walking (when normally, we both have desk jobs and would have been sitting all day). I got a great haul! Although I got charged taxes again on my way back through the border, I guess that’s how it works (this was my first time!!). I recently read one of Suzan’s posts (Welcome to The Nut House) where you were struggling finding Jeans and this year your goal is to find Jeans that aren’t so Mom Jeans like. I’m excited for you for finding some pretty awesome jeans because that was my biggest excitement today! I found 2 pairs today and in an entire year, I am lucky if I can find 2 pairs of jeans that fit me properly!!! Although I’m not a mom and don’t have the mom jean complex, I have the, I’m short with thick legs and well, I’m short! Finding jeans that fit me is tough because most stores don’t even carry sizes that fit me and if the waist is the right size, I normally can’t even get them past my calves. So, two pairs of jeans, a bunch of candles, a new pair of running shorts, a warm long sleeve running top, and a visit to The Cheesecake Factory, I think I’m back to normal!!!

After getting home from a mini road trip / shopping spree, I got home and laced up. I had a wonderful 30 minute run. A little tough wanting to stop each time I knew I hit a mark (1 km, 10 minutes, 2 km). I just thought, Beach Body, I want that more than I want to stop now so each time I wanted to stop I told myself at each 10 minutes I would walk 1 minute. There we have it, Janathon Day 17 completed with my regular mini session of strength training afterwards. Oh and the strength training is working, my upper back and stomach/core have been a little sore lately when I wake up (all the spots I’ve been targeting)!! This is good sore!! 😀

Thank you to everyone who has been sooooooo extremely supportive in this time while I’ve been sick and then moody. No one like a crabby sicky pants so here I am thanking you for your patience and support. Can’t wait to log some more kms like I did today to make up for those less fortunate runs!

Happy Weekend and Good Luck to all those running this Weekend!
I know Ashley’s (Miles on Oats) doing her second Half Marathon – You’ll be amazing!!
I’ll be reading some more blogs to see what else you’re all up to 🙂

It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. – J. K. Rowling

January 15 Run: 18:00 (mm:ss), 2.33 km, 7’47″/km (iPod)

A little different kind of day compared to yesterday. Work felt a lot slower today, I felt exhausted, moody, and basically just cranky. Have you ever had one of those days? Well, after a day like that, nothing was on my mind – not even running. So, I gave what my goal was and did the 2 kms. I did a bit more in terms of sit ups and weights afterwards but probably still not nearly enough. I need to up my cross and strength training! That may be a goal after accomplishing 2 km’s a day for January.

Health-wise I’m probably 95%!! The only other bit is just getting some rest and getting my stomach back to normal. Although during today’s run, I did have to slow down so I could actually blow my nose… that’s not something I can multi-task.

I read a pretty helpful article on Runner’s World today, The 6 Best Exercises for New Runners. There’s some great information in this article – even if you aren’t a new runner!!! The exercises are all basic and pretty easy to perform.

Well, Janathon Day 15 has been completed with a 2 km run. I am on a 16 day run streak! I would have never thought I’d run this many days straight!! I’d like to be a lot more excited but maybe when the month is over and I see a few pounds go (I thought I was losing weight but I’m not)… I know, diet has a lot to do with it too and having pizza for dinner tonight was probably not a good idea. I miss those days when I ate mall food every day and I weighed a lot less than I do now. I like bad foods and I like good foods. I like to eat and I don’t want to give it up. Even in fruits I’ve been told I eat it too much – too much sugar all the time and I eat it all day every day (sugar at night is not as good for you apparently). So, I’ll control myself with moderation – which is why I didn’t eat an entire pizza to myself, I can you know! … I shouldn’t be that proud of that fact but I’m proud I ate two of the smaller slices to the pizza and stopped after that.

I’m not sure how much truth there is to this image below (I’m too tired to do the research on this but it seems appropriate)…It might be true and it might be a myth and there’s a 95% chance that the percentage is purely made up but there’s a 100% craving for some pop and burgers now… This picture is also missing fries! Haha… Stupid advertising.
Unfortunately, if our choices make us who we are and you are what you eat, I’m a big round, greasy, piece of deliciousness! Luckily, I do make other good choices and it’s not like I have pizza every day. 🙂

I hope you’ve been stronger than I and saying NO to those bad craving and substitute with healthier choices.

Until tomorrow’s run, Happy Running! (or Biking, or Walking, or Swimming, or Cross/Strength Training, or whatever you are blogging about because I like reading your blog too!)

Tonight’s run does not include full pics of the treadmill reads since the run was split into two intervals: a 30 minute set plus an 8 minute set. This happened again by setting the treadmill to 30 minutes at the beginning when I intended to run maybe 26 (3 kms). After 30 minutes I was at 4 kms and felt good enough that it wouldn’t hurt me to run 8 more minutes (1 km). The treadmill read 3.21 miles in 38 minutes, so my pace here was pretty amazing, 7’21″/km. I did try to push myself a whole lot harder.

No, unfortunately, I’m not 100% better. However, during the entire run, I only had 1 cough attack which wasn’t so bad! Each day the symptoms seem to change a little bit but today I do feel better. Headache is gone and my nose isn’t running faster than me anymore! I am still nauseous at times and feel sick to the stomach but that little bug can kiss it while I suck it up and run. My chest still feels heavy and throat is still scratchy.

Since I’ve been sick for quite a few days now, I’ve decided I should just fake it until I make it. Who cares if I’m not feeling well? I’ve got to get in some kilometres and that’s just what I did! It’s been 2 weeks of Janathon now and I haven’t given a rest day yet to running! How can I? Your runs and blog posts are keeping me inspired, I must keep going!

What’s new? I’m still feeling sick. Went to work, didn’t feel nearly as bad as I have the last few days, made it through, and got home in one piece. Feeling a lot more nauseous tonight and a lot more coughing tonight than during the entire day. Sick of being a lazy butt and doing 1 km, I put myself on the treadmill for 18 minutes – whatever distance this would have equated to would be it. I put the speed up just one notch higher than the last 2 days since I really wanted to push myself out of this self-pity of sickness. In the end I completed a bit more than 2 k at a pace a little quicker than the last 2 days. No where near back to normal – my chest was killing me and a few cough attacks during the running proved quite challenging. Janathon Day 13 Completed.

I’d like to get back to my normal self and run outside again. Now, I am a little hesitant to get back outside; worried I will over/under-dress, slip on all the ice, waste too much time getting dressed (since the treadmill is easy to get ready for), not have water with me, etc. The motivation to get outside is not back and I’m worried I may lose momentum… Help?…

By the way, have I ever mentioned how much I appreciate YOU? The reader, yes, you! Thank you for your likes, for your comments, and for your support! You’re making me feel a lot better and helping me stay accountable to being active every day during this time where I only want to curl up in bed. Not only do I get on the treadmill – when I’m done my stretches, I do some other exercises. I would not be doing any of this without you, THANK YOU!!

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit. – Aristotle

January 12 Run: 9:00 (m:ss), 1.08 km, 8’28″/km (iPod)

Janathon Day 12 is now complete with another 1 kilometre run. I was really hoping today would be a 3 or 5 k run outside but seriously, I am up and down with being better and being a lot worse. I had to head over to my Mom’s this afternoon to bring her an early birthday gift. Her birthday’s not until later in February but there was this cross-walk treadmill on sale that she wanted so we went to pick it up, bring it over, and help put it together. All this and being sick I felt decent being out of the house. Luckily, I have a wonderful Mom who made me a great soup to take hope (which I’m enjoying now and soothing my throat). On the way home, I got drowsy/weak and slept in the car and felt worse again. Got in, slept some more. Finally got up and stepped on the treadmill for a measly 1k run. I feel worse today after running maybe because I didn’t even have the energy to get down the stairs to the treadmill… I’m beginning to question if running is making me more sick because my body just needs time to rest… and then I think, no way I’m breaking my running streak! I’d rather be a little weak than to ever regret not running when I physically can.

It’s your choice!

I’m sick of being sick and I’m sick of not being able to focus on anything else other than being sick.
I’m chilled to the bone even though I keep waking up in heat sweats… off to take a bath and more sleep in hopes I can survive Monday.

The sick are the greatest danger for the healthy; it is not from the strongest that harm comes to the strong, but from the weakest. – Friedrich Nietzsche

Even though I’m sick, I can’t break this running streak; so, if running 1 km is what I have to do, it’s what I will do.

January 11 Run: 9:00 (mm:ss), 1.08 km, 8’25″/km (iPod)

Well, Janathon is about getting up and being active when you wouldn’t have been. I may have jinxed myself yesterday because I am sicker than ever. My head is pounding, ears are stuffed, nose is running, throat hurts, coughing, and getting hot cold spells. With all of this, I spent the entire day bundled up and lying around. I only made my way downstairs from my bed when I got hungry and had to come down so I stayed on the couch all day. Really, the pounding headache was the only thing that hurt me the most. After some ibuprofen and more sleeping I got up and “ran” a kilometre on the treadmill. It was probably a jogging pace for most but it was still a running pace for me and with the way I was drinking water for those 9 minutes, you’d think I had been running 10k.

To my surprise, after feeling so miserable all day, before, and during my run, I now feel pretty good. My nose and my throat are still being a pain but it seems I feel more awake than I have at all today and the headache has subsided for the time being. Look at this post! It’s getting long, I thought I’d only be able to log the run and then pass out!

Some might say I’m crazy for not just resting and some might think I’m inspirational for getting up, I think I’m a little bit of both. The logical left side of my brain said to stay down and be wrapped up, continuing moping around and be weak. The fantasy based right side of my brain said how bad can 1 k be? Even if I run it slower than what I’ve been running, it will still be 1 extra kilometre I would not have done.

It’s been 12 days now of running and after January, I’d like to keep this running streak going. Hopefully by day 365 I’ll have done so many kilometres, being sick won’t matter! I’ll be on vacation in March though so let’s see how that works out for running every day…

It doesn’t seem like I’m the only one getting sick, so I hope you’re all staying healthy and doing well!
I’ll end today with two little images since I couldn’t choose between them.

Remember, the feeling you get from a good run is far better than the feeling you get from sitting around wishing you were running. – Sarah Condor

If my nose is running more than I have today, does that count? I’m sure it doesn’t… so after spending my vacation day curled up on the couch, staying warm, and turning my nose into Rudolph’s, I got up to run…

January 10 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2.01 km, 8’04″/km (iPod)

Okay, so I’m sure I would have spent my day off being lazy but I’m sure it would have been way more enjoyable than a scratchy throat and a nose that won’t stop running. However, running with a nose that’s running faster than you are is pretty annoying. Although my run was only for 16 minutes as compared to the 40 yesterday, I completed my 2 km goal plus a few other exercises. More than I can say for all of those other sick days I’ve had. I did plan ahead and put a lot of tissues at my treadmill. I think I had to wipe my nose more than I had to wipe sweat – not that I didn’t work up a sweat! Here’s to completing Day 10 of Janathon!

I spent all day watching mindless television and playing Catan online… I decided I would watch some inspirational videos on Youtube, so here’s what helped me get off the couch, thanks Ben!

I was looking forward to having the day off and running outside during daylight but if I get better soon, I have tomorrow or Sunday still! I have also taken the remaining Fridays off for the rest of January – hello 4 day work weeks! I do plan on spending these days being active. Next Friday I’ll be heading over to Buffalo to shop. I will be on my feet walking, ALL DAY compared to the 8 hours I would have been spending sitting at work. Now here comes a very important question – Does shopping all day count as exercise towards Janathon?

Okay, so here’s the breakdown, I’m still sick with a bit of a sore throat today, but feeling better. Stayed late at work today to get some stuff done (had a major breakthrough in Excel again and I booked tomorrow off). Yay, today was my Friday at work! Anyways, I put myself to the treadmill not really wanting to at all since I got home a little later than normal. I set 18 minutes to run a little more than my 16 minute 2 km run. Since the time flew by and I felt so strong, I put another 7 minutes to the treadmill. After completing my run and completing my run on my iPod, I stepped off the treadmill and still felt strong. I WANTED MORE! I even thought about setting the treadmill to 60 minutes just to see how long I could go. I ended up decided another 16 minutes to add another 2 km. All that adding puts me here: 41 minutes, 5.18 km, and an average pace of 7’55″/km (according to a pace calculator).

No real photo to give you that will have all the details and not sure what to upload from my devices that shows all of my stats in one place. I decided to upload the 3 runs from the treadmill online and this is all I get (see below). Yeah, the Livestrong treadmill kind of sucks and so does the website (it’s hard to navigate through online and the treadmill doesn’t give you too much room to be creative). Unfortunately, the Livestrong site says I only burned 183 calories and I’m pretty sure 5 k burns a whole lot more than that at my weight, haha. I don’t mean to give them a bad review, maybe I’m just so accustomed to the Nike+ site…

I’m coming down with a sickness… I’ve been coughing all day… After getting a shower in the morning for work, all I wanted to do was go back to bed. It even got to a point where I had such a major cough attack in the afternoon, I just smashed my head into my desk wishing it would all end. I thought about coming home and substituting the run with a longer yoga session (I haven’t done yoga in a long time!) but at least yoga would count towards Janathon. I thought about cycling… then I thought how I’d feel if I broke my 8 day run streak just because of a silly potential sickness. I got home and slowly moseyed along until I got all my basic running items on. Two kilometres later, here I am. Glass of Orange Juice to help get extra vitamin c in and one set of hurting lungs / throat / chest. Luckily, I only had one cough attack during the run and that was early on. Boy is it tough trying to run while coughing. The best thing about today, I WANTED TO RUN all day long. That’s all I wanted. I kept thinking that I wanted the cough to go away so I could have a good run. I wanted to feel less tired so I could have a good run. I had a good run because I ran. 🙂

I wish I could spend some time writing some creative or funny blog post but really, I’d just like to go to sleep.

Luckily almost doesn’t count – almost didn’t run today!
Initially I started the day off being excited that I would come home and complete day 7 of Janathon, day 8 of straight running (Starting with a 5K Resolution Run December 31!). Well, my day was exhausting at work, really mentally exhausting. By the time I got home, I just wanted to curl up in bed, get warm, and zone out. After bumming around the couch for over an hour I finally got up and put myself on the treadmill for 2 kms. Done and Done.

“Wow, I really regret that run” – Said by no one ever!(Unless something unfortunate happens on that run… then I’m sorry… 😦 )

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance. The wise grows it under his feet.– James Oppenheim

The way I see it… Runners grow happiness under their feet and flourish in the distance.

January 6 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2.12 km, 7’32″/km (iPod)

There it is!!! Janathon Day 6 complete – another 2 km! I honestly thought that by 6 day I would have caved and done a cycling session instead. I may not have blogged it yet and as it is always said at my work “if it’s written it’s real”, I plan to run a minimum of 2 km a day for the month of January (or at least average out 2 km a day for January). If I decide to cycle instead of run then I will have to ensure the day before or after is at least a 4 km run. Here we are on a Monday after a very busy day at work, I planned that I would be exhausted (mentally) from work so I did 4 kms yesterday in anticipation. Well, I got home after a long day and all I wanted to do was run!!! Maybe I should have done more than 2 kms on the treadmill, but I was dripping of sweat so I knew I got a good work out in. Sometimes 2 kms sound so minimal to me and others it sounds like it’s unachievable! Right now, it’s perfect for me.

Oh by the way, it is -17°C (feels like -29°C) with freezing rain and wind chill warnings and wind gusts at 34 km/h up to 53 km/h. Based on the freezing rain last night, all the sidewalks were iced up and skateable! I don’t think my spikes would have saved me. This is why I opted for the treadmill tonight, haha. It was a no brainer.

Believe in yourself! I believe in me and I can’t wait to see how far my body will go with running every day for an entire month! Part of my Janathon goal is to not let my mental get in the way. I will do what my body can physically do on its own and shut my brain off!

You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them. – Michael Jordan

January 5 Run: 30:47 (mm:ss), 4.01 km, 7”40″/km

Not only does it make you feel 50% more hardcore; the way I see it, you actually are!!!

That’s what I’m talking about!!! Getting back into the groove and into what my pace should be. Yes, running is running but I’d like to set some goals. I’m not competing with anyone else but myself – so I’d just like to be running faster and stronger than I was last year. Today’s run was amazing – considering I had gone for a run later in the day yesterday, I thought today’s would be a slower recovery run done early in the morning. Well, it wasn’t quite as early as I’d hope but I got out the door by 10:30 am. Luckily, I missed all the freezing rain by the time I headed out to door. Is it bad, I’m slightly disappointed I didn’t get to run in the rain?

I am proud of this run not only because the pace is faster than what it has been lately, but because I knew I could go even faster! Why didn’t I? The route I was running still had quite a bit of snow and with the rain in the morning it was pretty slushy, uck! Luckily, I had my yaktrax on (they’re amazing!), and I did my run with short quick steps… they weren’t all super quick as this got pretty tiring pretty quickly! I was motivated to run on and hit each km within 7 minutes – I did 7 minute run plus 1 minute walk until I got to today’s goal of 4 kms. Did I just say that? I included walking in my run today and I ran a faster pace? Yup!! I need to get back onto proper training (interval runs, speed runs, hills, etc…) BUT I’m not making excuses, I’d just like to spend January and Janathon being active and enjoying life. Not everything has to be so serious. Just Be Happy 🙂

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. – Confucius

January 4 Run: 42 min, 5.02 km, 8’20″/km

Today’s wonderful, slow, steady run was accomplished outside!! Yay, outside! Although I didn’t get my butt out there until 5:30 pm, it was already dark out! It’s 7 PM now and it look likes it should be midnight. Glad to be able to get outside again in -1°C (feels like -7°C) weather. A little windy (21 km/h) but still fantastic compared to a treadmill run! I went my pace; even though I thought I was going fast but ended up being “slow” – thanks snow! I love snow so I can’t really be upset. 🙂

runrchatts came out and joined me for my run which was great. I always enjoy his company. No music, just a little bit of chit chatting wherever I could get the breathes in to, haha. I didn’t really look at my watch too much other than for timing to see how long I’ve been running each interval. I did look at my pace as I mentioned earlier thinking I was running faster but I didn’t push myself harder or make myself go slower – I just went out and ran.

If you aren’t aware yet, I’m participating in Janathon! Run – Log – Blog for the entire month, every single day. Yes, you can substitute Runs with any sort of physically activity (I’m sure I’ll have a few cycling days). So, for day 4, I got in a good 1 hour work out, 40 minute run and a nice little walk outside after. Thanks to @janathon_ , I have now signed up for twitter too!

So much social media: twitter, facebook, blog, nike+, Running Free (not sure how to get to my personal page), pinterest, and I’m sure I’m part of a bunch of other sites I’m not even sure how to use. The below “Social Media Explained” has been pretty helpful (even at my work I’ve used this a few times about a year ago to help get a handle on all of this and get a good laugh). Why so many different mediums? Well, I really do enjoy reading your stories and blogs but it’s a lot easier to find other Janathoners out there through twitter/facebook so I’ve joined to be able to connect with more of you and read more inspirational stories. Any-who, my username on anything I’m signed up for is rundmach so please, add me, follow me, invite me, let’s be friends! 😀

The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. – Emelia Earhart

January 3 Run: 16:08 (mm:ss), 2.32 KM, 6’55″/km (iPod Nano records)

I had revelation today while running! I warn you, this paragraph is a little boring about stats so if you skip to the next paragraph, I won’t blame you! I couldn’t figure out why the image to the right (my treadmill) has been so different from my Nike+ Sportswatch. Better yet, I have been beating myself up about how much slower I am now than I was earlier last year while running on the same treadmill. I was using my iPod Nano over the new watch I have!!! The Nano is off to the real distance outside when tracked with a map, but after confiding in runrchatts, I should trust in the treadmill stats. So, here we are. Treadmill reads 1.45 miles (2.32 km while my watch read 1.84 km). It’s not that I’m being lazy, it’s just because I can tell I am pushing myself way way way harder on the treadmill than I ever am outside. On the treadmill tonight I ran at 5.5 miles per hour or 11 minute mile pace; that’s equivalent to 6’50″/km when my average pace should be around 7″45″/km. Going forward, my treadmill runs will be loaded with my iPod nano instead of my watch (the iPod nano has the ability to be calibrated – this means I can adjust to the distance I see on the treadmill).

After discovering the discrepancy, I am super excited to know that I am not all that slow compared to where I was early last year. It is not about being better than someone else, but it’s about being better than I was yesterday and if I am digressing, then it’s a little demotivating. Today, I have discovered I may not be all that slow – it’s just the treadmill and the devices. Maybe I should take my own advice and JUST RUN!

Now that the extreme wind-chill and cold weather alerts are off, I’m excited to get outside and run this weekend!!!

Janathon Day 3 now complete! Woohoo!!! I hope you’ve been training, running, working out, being active and logging it in! It’s worth it!! At least for me it is. Thanks for your likes and supports! Thanks for sharing your journey with the world and me! Thank you fellow bloggers, runners, and Janathoners!

Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted. – William Bruce Cameron

Day 2 of the Janathon Challenge – Run, Blog, Repeat.

January 2 Run: 19:34 (mm:ss), 2.19 km, 8’55″/km

I’m getting slower on the treadmill? I thought I was going faster. On the treadmill I completed 20 minutes, 1.65 miles (2.66 km), at a 12 minute mile (7’30″/km). See below for complete comparison between the pieces of technology that will make me go insane one day.

So there it is, 3 different items with the same person doing the same thing at the same time and 3 pretty different outcomes.

Well, I guess it doesn’t matter. Those 20 minutes were killer and I was basically wheezing at the end of it.
I have a lot I want to keep blogging about but since I’ll be doing this for another 29 days, this one will be a shorter one as I’d like to take a bath and relax my muscles.

Good luck to all those out there aiming to succeed in Janathon! It’s only day 2 and I thought about resting – only for half a second!
Please feel free to add me to Nike+ or Running Free – my username is rundmach. 🙂

Happy Running!

rundmach

http://www.janathon.com
p.s. I’m not sure if I’m supposed to put the logo and link to the site to every blog post, so I will do it anyways.

JANATHON 2014!!!!

*Or do some other form of exercise (swim, bike, etc.)
**Or tweet
***Um, no, it’s harder than you think!

So, that’s about it, Run & Blog everyday, find out everything else you need to know about Janathon here: http://www.janathon.com.

I remember stumbling across Janathon last year right near the end of the month and figured well it’s too late now – I never knew you could join anytime!
Well, here we are in 2014 and I got home around 9:30 PM (it’s about -23°C here with the windchill) so I laced up and got on the treadmill. There was no way I was going to let myself say “Oh in another 364 days I’ll give this Janathon thing a shot”. The time is NOW!

January 1 Run: 17:22 (mm:ss), 2.02 km, 8’36″/km

Although it was a short run, I was determined to make 2 kms (aiming for around 15 minutes…). This was a treadmill run, and guess what? The treadmill says I did 2.59 km while my Nike+ watch said I did 2.02 km… If you’ve missed it before, none of my tech pieces seem to sync up but I’m gauging all of my runs off of the watch that follows me everywhere I go – so I ran the extra few on the treadmill so that my watch would add up to 2 KMs. Whooooweee was that ever a long 2 km, felt like the longest 2 k I have ever ran!
Check out the comparison below between my Nike+ watch and my iPod nano with the Nike+ built-in… a minute off (since I turned the iPod on earlier) but an extra 550 meters? I don’t think I can run that fast!

Why 2 kilometres (1.24 miles)? Well, I haven’t quite set my 2014 goals yet but if I do set one, it might be to cover a total of 730 kms in 2014 (that’s 2 kms a day). This year I did covered a total of 481 km! That’s a big difference!!! I’m not 100% sure if this is what I want to do as I’ll have my ever so enjoyable 5k runs and races along with some 10 k races but let’s not start the year off too harsh and at least get the 2kms in while I can! It’s not like the goal is to actually run 2 kms a day but to average out 2 kms a day for the entire year.

I think I’m all signed up on Janathon and on the Running Free site that is being recommended (but it can’t seem to connect to my Nike+ and I haven’t had time to figure out how to upload my workouts). I’m rundmach on those sites as well so please add me! I’ll figure all of this stuff out later when I’m not sleepy and need to get to bed for work tomorrow…

Just one more thing to cover… I got to kick off the New Year with some new kicks! I bought my running shoe in the previous year’s model a few months back because they were half the price of the pair I’m currently running. There were no major changes to the shoe so I saved them for the New Year! These are the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12’s – I’m currently in the 13’s which I have duct taped the inside to “weather” proof them so these 12’s will be my new indoor/treadmill shoe for now. They felt pretty awesome! 🙂 (I’m a big Nike fan but unfortunately, their shoes just aren’t made for my feet and for me to run in).

I’m not sure how I can keep track to run/be active everyday and blog everyday, but this will be a fun experiment to see how long I can go!

Are you participating in Janathon? Have you set some New Years goals yet?

Happy New Year and Happy Running!!!! 😀

Live everyday with Love or running – it’s practically the same thing ♥.

I’m excited to end off a Year with a run. Seeing my tags for my posts with “New Years Resolution” still being one of the larger ones means I’ve kind of succeeded! I’ve continued running this entire year! I have gone for at least 1 run every month this year!! I can’t wait to set new goals for the New Year. I’ve been reading a bunch of inspiring and touching year-end recaps and excited goals for the New Year, I wish you all the best! Your stories and blogs inspire me to continue.

Tonight’s run was at the pace that is comfortable to me without my spikes… didn’t think I would need them since I thought it was a regular “race” but we ran the sidewalks and was following pedestrian rules. The sidewalks were a little dangerous with ice and snow all around so we were all being “slower” and more careful with each step. Although I kept the same pace as my last run, my average heart rate was ridiculously higher than my average, guess I really ran my heart out! There’s no medal or anything but a super cool race jacket! I am so thankful for all of the volunteers, Brita, and all of the staff at the Burlington Running Room (and anyone else who may have been involved).

Thank you runrchatts for doing this run with me! I remember a few months back I didn’t want to do this alone since it was at 5 PM race and I had to go to work this morning so I signed him up and asked him to join me 🙂 Thank you for running my pace as well.

I am a runner. A slow runner. I might be going slower than a snail who’s stuck in peanut butter but I am still moving and proud of it!

This has been an amazing year with a lot of amazing victories: my first 10k, my second 10k, a couple of 5ks in the mix, and a whole lot of money raised for causes I believe in. The only resolution that has been left unresolved is my weight – I started and will be ending the year weighing the exact same. I’m not too bummed out about this since I feel much healthier than I did last year! 🙂
I am off to plan out my New Year and decide on the runs I’d like to do, volunteer for, and charities/causes I’d like to raise some funds for.

Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you’ll be a success. – Albert Schweitzer

I hope you had a very Merry Christmas / Happy Holiday no matter what you celebrated or will be celebrating!
I hope Santa was good to you. He was too me and all my favourite gifts are running related!! 🙂

December 28 Run: 39:00 (mm:ss), 5.00 km, 7’47″/km

It’s that time of year where I give in and have that second glass of egg nog and choose to spend time in front of the fireplace over lacing up and running. I won’t fully blame it on being sick as I’ve had a some kind of stomach bug for a few weeks now – it’s been so painful some days I just curl up until the pain passes. Today was no different. My stomach felt off and I really didn’t know what to do with myself – besides watch Criminal Minds (Marathon is on for another 7 days – STRAIGHT!). I just chose to let work take over my life and get caught up with the holidays.

Well, regardless of how I felt, I thought maybe my stomach is acting up because I haven’t been running! So, I laced up and put to use my new running spikes from runrchatts. The best part of Christmas? We bought each other the exact same thing – not only running spikes for the winter (because we just had a major ice storm here in southern Ontario), but we got each other the exact same brand and colour just in a different size, hahaha! The ice storm was so intense that people were ice skating on their side walks! Any ways, back to the run. The spikes are fantastic! I felt unstoppable! It was a little odd running on pavement with them on since some of the ice and snow has melted but the rest of the run felt steady and great! I had a very pleasing pace for my first run back after a 2 week Christmas hiatus. Everything was great – a little over dressed, body was sore and aching, my chest hurt, but the run was fantastic!

So, the running continues. My running plan is put on hold until I can get back on track with the plan itself. In the meantime, I will just get out there and run. 😀

Not a day went by in the last two weeks I didn’t think about running. I was sad I was letting myself down but was happy with the other things I was doing with family and friends. On the plus side, I didn’t let this turn into a month of no running and I was still very mindful of what I was eating and how much I was eating. I let myself have what I wanted but didn’t over do it. I hope you have been giving into your indulgences, you’re allowed! 🙂

Tuesday, December 31st is quickly approaching. Only 3 more days to the resolution run… It’s not on January 1st so it’s really a year-end run for me as I see it. A celebration of all that I have accomplished this year and getting ready for all the awesomeness in the new year!

Any who, hope you’ve been better than I and been running in the wonderful Winter season!

Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination. – Roy L. Goodman

December 15 Run: 45:17 (mm:ss), 5.47 km, 8’16″/km

Woah woah woah, let’s cover one thing with this pace, I was running in snow and my watch kept telling me I was running at 5’s and 6’s the whole time!! Not to fret though, I got out and completed my run after skipping the run on Friday night. I’ve been sick the last two days – not cold sick from the weather but bathroom sick which means no rapid movement allowed. Sorry if that was too much info for you.

Anyways, I got out to do the Friday run I had missed today since I felt a little better, my stomach is still not 100% back to normal but I managed. We got hit here with a LOT of snow and I’m sure all my fellow runners in Southern Ontario know what I mean since this is our first “Major” snowstorm of the season. According to the news we got hit with 25-30 cm of snow yesterday. My run today was wonderful. Very very tough but wonderful. This challenge was different from any other I have done as the issue was not with breathing or wind, it was with pushing my legs to go harder and faster because the snow felt so packed and tough to move through. I ran on the roads (against traffic) since most sidewalks weren’t done yet. I had to do mine twice yesterday and again this morning twice…. Cars were very kind even if they gave me crazy eye. Thank you everyone who was out shovelling and clearing up the sidewalks as well as to those cautious drivers who didn’t honk at me 😀

No, this did not stop me from starting my run 🙂

Eventually I made a path… then made my way to the roads!

I was dressed well and had the weather on my side. No wind!! Or not a lot anyways. My second layer of socks were soaked when I got back from my run but I didn’t notice during my run so I’m happy about that. My gloves were a tad too warm and so was my fleece buff headband. I wore the same pants I mentioned in last post and they were greats. Legs stayed warm!! 😀 In the end, it was all wonderful!! Some fluffy snow dropped a little bit during my run, oh how much I loved it!! ❤ Some shovellers were looking at my like I was crazy and they looked pretty angry and miserable… Not sure why some people hate the snow so much and choose to live in Canada? 🙂

So, I’m one run behind and I will make it up. I haven’t decided if I’ll do 3 runs in a row or if I will just shift my runs down one. The current plan I am running is run every other day. I know I have procrastinated with putting it up so here it is: Run For Fat Loss. I’ve been slacking on cross-training as well and there’s no excuse but Christmas. Hopefully I can jump back on a full strength/cross-training plan again on my days off soon! Right now I just need my days off to work and get holiday stuff ready 😀

I haven’t failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work. –Thomas Edison

December 11 Run: 30:04 (mm:ss), 3.69 km, 8’08″/km

Tonight’s run was an interval run at high intensity with recovery walks (hence the slower pace). The stats show a total of 4.2 km on the treadmill (which included a 3 minute warm up and extra 3 minute cool down). This run was 3 minutes hard (5.6 mph) and 3 minutes easy (walk 3.7 mph) repeated 5 times. It’s the dreadmill, what can I say? I did the run but I look forward to Friday’s steady run outside (45 minutes). I have also noticed I did not run to plan on Monday (40 minutes instead of 45). I misread! That’s a bummer because I could have done the extra 5, the run was so good. There’s no point dwelling over it now, I’m just excited to run this Friday for the full 45 minutes. Hopefully it isn’t puking snow out since that’s what the weather is forecasting. I’ll take the snow but maybe just light enough that I can see and run in. 😀 Maybe the snow can hold off while I’m in my house after my run? Thanks God!

I will get back to enjoying the treadmill!! Maybe by January? I turned on my timer I was using last year for the treadmill tonight to use for my run and noticed I was running 11:1 (11 minute on and 1 minute off). WOAH! I can barely stay alive for 3 minutes on the treadmill without absolutely feeling like I’m going to face-plant. Can’t wait to keep training so I can love the treadmill again for those super cold days.

Luck is a dividend of sweat. The more you sweat, the luckier you get.– Ray Kroc

December 7 Run: 37:41 (mm:ss), 5.03 km, 7’29″/km

5k time on my watch was 37:31. The official chip time isn’t up yet; I didn’t even know it was a chipped run until I picked up my race kit. Check it out. The kit is pretty sweet. $40 and you get a full Santa suit, beards are mandatory during race time too!

I’m sure you probably want to see what it looks like on so I will save the photo at the end. 😀
The run was still tough for me, too cold (-4°C feels like -8 with some crazy with that really hurt your hands), then too hot with the beard, hat, and ensemble. My chest really hurt the whole time; guess my inhaler didn’t help as I started a new one today…. It was however snowing a little bit on and off during the run, those moments made me smile. I did feel like I was struggling and not enjoying the run as much as I had liked to and been expecting…. Maybe my hopes were too high and my mind was preoccupied.

After the race. I grabbed a water with runrchatts who joined me for this run and tried to pace me… We didn’t hang around for the free pizza, line was just too long. During the majority of the run, I felt awful seeing him in front of me, it looked like he was walking with a hop because he had to try so hard to go so slow at a “run” pace and I was still falling behind… I still really appreciate the support and sort of company, haha. Thanks for trying to run with me and being there!

I was really hoping this run would get me more into Christmas… I haven’t been feeling well health wise and been a little stressed with work… My tree isn’t up yet and the house has 0 signs that Christmas is even on its way! Seeing all the Santas and hearing the Christmas music did help but now I’m home feeling blue again…

This was supposed to be a fun run but now I’m really bummed out with how horrible I feel for being so slow. I came to terms with my speed but then races like this make me realize just how slow I am. Why does everyone ask about how fast how fast? Couldn’t it be enough that I got out there and was active? Maybe I’m not cut out to be a runner either! Anyways, enough with being negative nancy, here’s a fun photo of me before the race…

This treadmill run was actually set for 20 minutes at a 4.9 mph or 7’34” pace (total distance , 1.71 miles). It didn’t change but somehow my watch tells me different stats in terms of pace and distance. Oh how I hate the treadmill! I ran the treadmill because it was a tempo run today according to the plan. I really wanted to make sure I kept that tempo pace so I did the run on the treadmill. Thank goodness tomorrow’s run is a 40 minute steady run, aka outside run!! Yes, back to back runs because I skipped Tuesday’s run for a good reason: I got the opportunity to go to a Leafs game, how could I say no?! Well besides the fact that the Leafs only showed up for the second period, I still had a blast but a very late night.

Tonight I decided to review my treadmill run log from earlier this year just to figure how I was able to run 77 minutes (a little over 10k) straight in April on the treadmill?! I don’t even enjoy 20 minutes on it right now. I guess it doesn’t really matter; I now have almost all the gear I need to be running outdoors all winter long! Treadmill will only be for those specific pace/speed/interval runs on the plan until I learn to regulate my pace outdoors.

Today was a speed training run, aka treadmill run. 5 minute warm up, 10 minute fast (5.6 mph), 5 minute walk, 10 minute fast run (5.6 mph), and a 3 minute cool down walk. I only tracked my actual run duration plus the one walk interval in between. Very very very tough run again. My chest hurt and my arms were grasping on the treadmill every moment I let them. On the plus side, I did run both 10 minute intervals straight at 5.6 mph.

This is how I felt.

Nonetheless, I am happy to have run this Friday evening. A coworker brought in doughnuts today, how could I say no?! I’m the one with the sweet tooth. I kindly said thank you but no thank you…. Then caved after a few jokes and indulged in a 320 calorie doughnut! I know life isn’t about counting calories but being aware of what I am injecting into my body and limiting it to what I need vs want is important since I’d like to lose some weight. I’m clearly not going to lose weight by giving in so easy. Sometimes though, you have to give in and indulge yourself, every now and then. So what’s the big deal that I had a snack that consumes more than my daily sugar intake and is equivalent to the calorie level of my regular lunches? It’s a big deal. I felt guilty the moment I took a bite! I enjoy my fruits so much, that’s all the sugar I need! I could have had my orange instead, which I did later on… I think my eyes and taste buds wanted the doughnut more than I actually did because I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. Here’s to saying NO next time and no guilty feelings!

I’m excited my next run is a steady run, this means outside!!! Yay!

Here’s to giving into those craving you truly want every now and again, here’s to saying no to those we don’t really want but think we do. Be strong!

Today I didn’t run outside not only because I was a chicken of how cold it is when it’s pitch black outside, but because I had a speed training session to complete. I’ve been told that once the temperature drops, it’s not ideal to be doing speed training (rapid bursts of high intense running with low intensity cool down periods). I guess the body just doesn’t enjoy warming up and cooling down repeatedly when the temperatures are below 0. Oh and I got a new toy I wanted to test out today while being indoors, a heart rate monitor to go with my Nike+ GPS Sportwatch.

November 25 Run: 30:05 (mm:ss), 3.69 km, 8’09″/km

This run is a 3 minute speed pace run (6’38″/km or 5.6 mph) and 3 minute low intensity pace (ranged from 3.5 to 4.4 mph) repeated 5 times. My low intensity should have been around an 8’20″/km (4.4 mph) but most of my low intensity intervals were at a brisk walk pace around 10:30″/km (3.5 mph). No biggie. I am just happy I was able to hit the speed intervals for the full 3 minutes each time at the right pace I needed to on a treadmill! This is my first time really doing a run like this (following a specific speed training pace within a regular run plan). I’ve done interval running but nothing to push myself to the max each interval. The treadmill is very tough; maybe because the image in front of my treadmill makes me dizzy, maybe it’s the visibility of all the numbers and counting down the work out instead of getting lost with nature, or maybe I’m just a big wimp.

I am feeling a little overwhelmed, reading too much about running, getting too many conflicting ideas/work out plans, and just so much to process and decipher, it’s information overload! Don’t get me wrong, EVERY LITTLE BIT OF INFORMATION HELPS!!! I really enjoy reading your blogs and your opinions. It’s more reading articles and speaking to other runners where I don’t quite feel like I belong. I just haven’t grasped everything everyone is always talking about. I feel I’m still struggling too much for how much time and effort I have put in. In no means am I asking you to stop commenting or sending me messages!! PLEASE KEEP PROVIDING ME HELP!!! Every piece of information is important. I treat each item like gospel and that could be my issue – trying to achieve everything because there’s so much good out there!

Any-who, if you have a good suggestion on figuring out your ideal Heart Rate while running or a site you can send me to, that’d be just fantastic! I’ve found a few online but was just wondering what should be my real guide? What do you use?

Hope you’re off to a good start to the week.

Happy Running!

rundmach

P.S. Yesterday, I was a little bummed out all morning; in a bit of a funk you’d say. Why? Because my plan didn’t call for running yesterday!! What’s up with that? No run on a Sunday? Well I fixed that up with some cross-training later in the day to make up for it (cycled and did various mini workouts).

If you wait for the perfect weather conditions, you’ll never get anything done.

Today marked the first real snowfall where I live. What better way to celebrate than to go outside for a run?

November 23 Run: 30 min steady, 3.94 km, 7’38″/km

If you’re new to my blog, or may have forgotten from last year, I LOVE SNOW! I love to snowboard and I love the winter season. I have not been able to mix my love for winter with my love for running but today I did this. Today, I had one of my happiest runs I have had in a very long time. My 30 minute run at a steady pace was at just about the right speed I had to be (none of this treadmill nonsense). There was half a km uphill against 32 km/hr winds where I slowed down to about 8’40″/km but come on, Uphill and Against the wind, I didn’t care as long as I was still moving. I felt pretty awesome running against that wind and in snowfall (which didn’t last the entire run; it was on off snow). Near the end of my run, the snow really started falling hard and I couldn’t help but have the biggest grin on my face as I was finishing my last 4 minutes. I swear, there was a lady walking by me with her groceries in one hand and other hanging onto her hood to keep from blowing away, stared me down and thought I was crazy for being so happy running in the snowfall.

Breathing was awesome during this run too. I didn’t struggle finding my breath, my chest didn’t hurt, I loved absolutely every minute of my run. It was 0°C (felt like -6°C). I was worried I’d be under dressed but my top was probably a little too heavy as I was pretty sweaty but now I know better. I am so excited to run more in the cooler weather!!!! I do wish I had more chanced to run in day light other than on weekends but I am content with this.

I’d also like to welcome back fellow blogger runrchatts who came out to run 30 minutes with me today! His run plan required him to run 4 km steady, so we both started at the same time and I took an earlier turn for a shorter loop and he went on. After about 25 minutes he caught up to me, not very shocked but very happy 🙂 I met him at the end where he finished his 4 km and I finished my 30 minutes.

I wish I had been able to capture the beauty of the snowfall while I was out but I don’t run with my phone so no pretty pictures. I hope you got to enjoy your day today and get to embrace the winter!

Okay, so my last post I said who cares how slow I go as long as I go. Yes, I still believe that but I also don’t believe that I should be running THIS slow on a treadmill. I’ve never had a run at this pace and still feel I was running. I’m really hating the treadmill right now seeing that I am running 2 minutes slower per km than I am outside and it feels just as tough!! It’s a little depressing seeing on fitness trackers that doing 9 minutes per km is a brisk walk pace and I’m actually running at that pace. Huh?!

So here it is, who cares how cold it is or going to get or how dark it gets, I am running outside!! I will invest and put some money into stupid expensive winter running gear and be prepared. There’s no good routes to run when it’s dark here because the paths are not lit at all. The streets are short and boring but I bet they’re more enjoyable than on the treadmill!! I will figure this out and get outside to complete my runs!

Here’s to wishing happy runs for all of us! 🙂

rundmach

P.S. I completed my cross training again yesterday as per plan with some boxing, stationary cycling, and various strength training exercises.

Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised.Never expect less of yourself!

November 17 Run/Walk: 40:01 (mm:ss), 5.15 km, 7’46″/km

Today, I completed another 5K outside running 4 minutes and walking 2 minutes. Despite the Wind Warnings and risk of thunder showers all day, I went outside and took advantage of the 12°C cloudy weather. If I don’t run both days during the weekends, I lose running during daylight. I expected today to be slow and painful but somehow, today was much better of a run all around compared to yesterday. I didn’t over dress, I was confident, I was sore but faster, I didn’t feel like my chest hurt as much, a lot more runners outside as well, and overall I enjoyed the run much more!

Trying to keep my blog posts short so I’m not ranting and rambling soooo….
I’m so happy to have gone for a run today and hope you’re enjoying your day too 🙂

I got up nice and early this morning to do a nice little 5k run. A little chilly! It was 8ºC (46ºF). I wore shorts and a long sleeve. Probably need to go the other way. Longer pants (kapris or full pants) and a t shirt. I could feel my skin crackling on my thighs, but it was a great feeling! What do you wear when it gets to 0ºC? I know the rule to always dress 10 degrees warmer than the actual temperature, but really, when do I start pulling out the gloves and headband to cover my ears?

October 9 Run: 39:46 (mm:ss), 5.02 km, 7’55″/km

So, it was a little cool and I was running slow just to get the distance in but when I got to my last KM at around 33 minutes, I said I can’t finish a 5k in over 40 minutes so I kicked it up a notch. I finished my last km in 6 minutes 31 seconds!!!! Well, I guess it’s true, when you set our mind to something, you can do it! I need to keep pushing myself to be the best me I can and I won’t stop!

Since my last post, I have decided all my runs will have to be 5 k and if they aren’t then the following run will be increased by the difference. Let’s say tomorrow I run 3 km, then the following run will have to be 7 km! This will hopefully get me to the 1000 km goal in a shorter time 🙂 .

In an earlier post in September, I mentioned wanting to sign up for more runs before the year is over. I have now officially signed up for two runs in December!!

December 7: Santa 5K – Everybody has to be in the Santa costume that comes in your race kit to participate!
December 31: Resolution Run

These two runs are more fun runs for myself. These will most likely be done in snow! I could already see my breath all morning during my run and even fogged up my own glasses sometimes, haha. I’m excited to be part of these two runs as it will really push my limits and be a staple of how far I’ve come from not running to running in the Canadian Winter!!! 😀

I hope you remember to take some time to reflect on your success in running and in life. If you haven’t, take some time and reflect, you’re a wonderful human being and you’ve come a long way, be happy and be proud of your success and how far you’ve come in life.

I hope you all had a successful weekend! I have two updates to post for this weekend a few other notes to share.

October 5 Run: 27:04 (mm:ss), 3:31 km, 8’11″/km

October 6 CIBC Run for the Cure: 38:00 (mm:ss), 5.41 km, 7’01″/km

Saturday. Let’s cover Saturday’s run first. I CAVED and had to get out for a run. My last run was Tuesday and by Saturday I was dying to run again and just couldn’t wait until Sunday so I let myself outside and said I’d do 3 KMs and at a very very slow pace. I accomplished this and felt better than ever. I was sooo happy I gave myself this run. After a run early in the morning and a late night getting in from my first ever NHL Hockey game at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto to watch the Leafs’ home opener vs the Ottawa Senators, I called it a night at about 1 AM. I don’t stay up late so this made me worry a little bit about having to run the next morning.

Top right is pre run and bottom left is post run.

Sunday Morning. Not a problem! Let’s wake up and shower (yes my pre-race routine includes a shower). Off we go. Running for a Cure, my friend and I did the run to raise money for a better future for all of our breasts. Our team raised $680!! This makes me very happy!! I hope one day we can find a cure for cancer (and breast cancer). The atmosphere, energy, and support of everyone at this venue was incredible. I loved all the kids and the spirit that was there!! This is definitely a run I want to continue to do every year for as long as I am alive. I am happy that I am running and continue to run for a cause.

The Run. This is my second time doing this run. My first was my first ever race last September – this was a Big Day for me. It was last year and it is again this year. It marks my progress over the last year. I finished the 5k run almost 2 minutes faster! Although I luckily wasn’t sick this year and gained a bit of momentum from that, I did learn a lot about myself and being a runner in the last year. The Route had changed due to construction and instead of 5k it was 5.4km! What a bummer.. By the time I realized this, I was 150m away from 5k so I gave it my all to try to hit my 35 minute goal… The finish line was actually much further away so I didn’t realize I had to empty the tank earlier than where the finish line actually was. I was unsuccessful at this and finished 5K in 35:19. Although I finished with a group of Warriors around age 9 – 11, it’s not too shabby. I’m getting better!! I did run nonstop and tried to pace my friend but she drifted off after about 1.5km in; I did get to finish, walk back and run through the finish line with her again; that felt great being able to see her push through and destroy her 5k time! Can’t wait to see her progress in a year when we run this again next year. 🙂

More Happiness. Today’s 5k also marked my 500 km recorded on Nike +! That’s pretty awesome that I’ve run over 500 km as of today. I cannot wait to destroy this and get to 1000 km in even less time and less number of runs. This is definitely a huge milestone for me and I’d like to give a shout out to runrchatts for beating his first 500 km on Nike+ too! He also wore a pink ribbon today while he did his run for his half-marathon training. Thanks for the support 🙂

Other Notes. This will be my last fundraising efforts for 2013. I thank everyone who had supported me/the cause I have been raising awareness for. I know I have exhausted all of you, my friends, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving what you can. In the next two months I am looking forward to volunteering and getting hands on with helping before I start to look at fundraising again in the new year. I do also have two other runs I plan on signing up for but those are both fun (non chipped timed) runs that I’ll be doing more for myself. I love to run and I think adding in some runs just for the experience and joy will be great to add to the list of my race history. I feel that over this weekend I have had so many thoughts I wanted to blog about but as I’ve run out of time and left blogging to Sunday night before bed, I am scrambling with those thoughts… I will update you with any further notes I may have throughout the week as I continue to run. Thank you for reading, following, liking, commenting, and supporting me. Thank you for being you and awesome!

Tonight’s run was a time to pace my friend who has decided to join me again in running. If you recall My First Post, my friend was unable to continue running as she got shin splints, ouch! Well, I’m happy to welcome her back into running. She joined our team for the Terry Fox run and her and I are a team for the CIBC Run for the Cure run as well.

October 1 Run: 22: 22:58 (mm:ss), 3.06 km, 7’30″/km

Just on pace!! It was very hard trying to pace at this speed. I found myself going too fast or too slow a lot, but eventually thought I found a happy medium. After plugging in my watch it looks like I was still fluctuating all over the place but kept an average at exactly where we wanted. I did feel super comfortable running with her and focussing on her running over mine. I could actually get out sentences without sounding like I’m going to die. So, is this because I’ve switched my focus or because the last few runs have been spent focussing on increasing my pace?
It doesn’t really matter, I’m just happy with tonight’s run!

It was a long long long day at work and pretty overwhelming doing a lot of requests and not getting to my own work. I think she had the same kind of day as we sit right next to each other at work. The run, the perfect therapy! Not to mention the veggie sushi rolls we had pre run. Yum!

My question for all of you, how do you keep a steady pace? I use a watch and still can’t maintain very well.

Whether you’re running alone, with a friend, or in a group, I hope you’re running happy! 🙂

I’m not on a running plan right now but I know most runners do their long runs on Sunday which should now be known as Runday going forward! If Subway can rename the days of the week to chicken teriyaki , so can runners!!

Today’s a busy day and I wanted to make sure I got a run in even if it meant running early and my body wouldn’t be fully recuperated from last night’s run… I got up and headed out.

September 29 Run: 25:22 (mm:ss), 3.41 km, 7’26″/km

After reading a bunch of inspiring blogs this morning, I set out to complete 5k after discovering the Automattic’s World Wide WP 5K from Striding Toward’s Life. It’s pretty neat how the blogging community comes together and the running community is so strong.

As you can see by my results, I didn’t achieve 5k today. These aren’t excuses but just plain truths. My body was definitely still tired from yesterday, my body felt so foreign to me as I tried to push myself. That caused me to run a little bit slower, but no big deal, just cover the distance. Then this happened… Over my last few runs I’ve been feeling like my left shoe is tied too tight as the top of my foot is hurting quite a bit once I start running. Today, I virtually tied a knot at the end of the laces and my foot still hurt!! By about 2k I realized, it’s not the shoe that’s too tight, it’s my foot!! I could feel my foot ripping apart. Oh no!! What was I going to do? It hurt so bad today I actually stopped to walk but then I had to completely stop when walking caused the lower arch of my foot to hurt. What was I to do? The top hurt the most while running… after a minute I just said okay let’s keep going and see how it feels, by the time I looped around the corner and got closer to home. I decided that I would just run my way home and call it a day, after all I did get in my 5k yesterday but I really wanted to get the 5k in today for the love of running! I kept pushing… then realized, I need to be smart, I need to listen to my body, if my foot is saying stop, I should stop. So I got home, grabbed some water, and went for a walk to cover the rest of the distance. When I walk, there’s no pain. The last thing I wanted to do is hurt myself before next Runday’s CIBC Run for the Cure 5k charity run.

The results, Falling for the Best will be my contribution to the wwwp5k! I don’t run with a camera phone or anything so I couldn’t take a photo of my run but I’m excited to use yesterday’s run as it was a personal best in the last little bit. It was a very successful run and I’m glad I did it and happy I can put it towards the wwwp5k.

I hope you remember to listen to your body! It’s good to push and strive for greatness but sometimes, you do just need to step back and take a breath, it doesn’t mean you’re quitting or giving up, you’re just building up more energy to destroy the next run!

Tonight was going to be an “easy” run to do a 5k since I’ve been pushing to up my speed the last two runs. Well, I just did my fastest 5k since early May of this year. Woohoo!!! I’ll always take a win. Today was a test and practice run to pace myself. I set the first 3k as the standard to just run a slower steady pace with no walk breaks, between 6’40” to 7’00″/km. I don’t know how people can pace so well?? I just run! My breathing is still super hard and I’m sure all the passer-bys are wondering if I need an ambulance. I noticed today as I was trying to train myself to pace, (can’t rely on my watch, especially at night when it’s so dark out), no matter how fast or even slow I moved my legs, my breathe was the same. It was hard and heavy but I added one then two more steps in the same breathing count and the breathing was the same but my legs could move faster, or slower. So what’s my problem? I don’t think I know how to breathe…. I’m breathing in and out trying to use my stomach and inhaling through my nose and out my mouth… No dice, I’m still struggling to get air in at the same rate, no matter how hard I’m moving the rest of my body.

Well, regardless of not being able to keep a steady pace, I completed 3k straight in about 21 minutes, walked a minute, ran 900 meters, walked a minute, and completed the run as strong as I could. I am so proud of myself for the time I did run. This gives me so much hope with how much faster I can actually run and how much more I can continue to push myself!!!

Although this is not a PR or anything, it feels like a personal best, at least it is for the last 4 months!! This fall season feels great for running with cooler temperatures and great inspiration surrounding me to be the best version of me I can be. Only one more week until the CIBC Run for the Cure! Hopefully my 50/50 raffle and fundraiser raffle for a day off at work will drive in some dollars for the cause.
Can’t wait to beat some actual personal records and continue to help drive change in the world!

I’d like to believe I’m a runner… not the elite but somewhere in that breed!!

Hi there,

I’m just logging in my run so this will be short.

September 25 Run: 20:03 (mm:ss), 3.01 km, 6’39″/km

YES!! My goal today was to run 3 km in under 20 minutes (6’40″/km pace), I think I did it?!!! My Nike+ says I did the 3k in 19:58, Wohoo!!

As I’ve been mentioning my, 30 Day Challenge, check out that link!! I’ve just finished day 15 and my legs feel great, arms are still a little weak and doing push ups is a challenge but that’s why it’s the 30 Day Challenge!!

This run was a planned experiment. It did happen a lot later in the day than I had hoped but it happened and I’m glad it did. After talking about my slow pace for so long, I decided, why aim for the 5k every run, why not shorten it down to a more “intense” run, let’s see what I can really do. My fastest ever 5K I had completed in 34 minutes (that’s 6’46″/km), I am now ranging around the 38 minute mark, how does one get slower? Well, it’s not for the lack of trying I can tell you that. This has got to be mental and some physical.

Today’s test, Run as fast as I can for 1KM, walk 1 minute, run the next km as fast as I can, walk 1 minute, and run the last 800 meters the fastest I can. Goal was to do 3k as fast as I can.
Well, who knew, I ran this in a pace that is an entire minute faster than my currentaverage pace. Not to mention, the 1st KM I ran in a minutes, that’s huge for me!! That means if I can add distance to my average speed today, I can knock out that 34 minute, 5k, from May and run at the speeds I was earlier in the year – Maybe I’ll even hit running under 6 minute km’s like I did last year… Where did all my speed go?

Another part of this experiment was to test my breathing and my chest/heart… Well, it turns out the harder I push my legs, the same rate my heart beats and same breathing patterns: I’m still breathing hard and heavy, my heart is still pumping as hard as every, but my legs just keep going. It was an 8 minute to walk home and my heart was still going but the cool down walk was very nice.

I know I have gained some weight since last year (actually about 10lbs), so it’s fair to say that my speed would slow down. But, after all of this, I’m drawing the conclusion that it has to be mostly mental. I’ve got a new plan, run less but run harder. Not always but maybe every other run or once a week. Then add more distance each time, just a little bit. I will still have those slow & steady runs of course. I’m going to look into some more detailed 5k run plans and see if those can help build up my endurance and speed.

The next run is in 2 weeks; it is the very first 5k event I ever did (last September – The Big Day!). I can’t wait to run this again even though the route has changed a little bit due to construction. I was sick last year but I motored on and got through it in less time than I can run 5k now!…… This year, I plan on being in good health and will hopefully run a PR!!!

What’s that?! 10K non-stop, that’s right!! I didn’t stop, I may have slowed down to an 8 km per hour pace at one point but I didn’t stop and I even ran an extra 200 metres pass the finish to hit the full 10k!!

HUGE HUGE HUGE Thank you goes out to runrchatts, CJ, and CF for coming out and running with me!!! My pace is pretty slow but it’s good training for them 😉 . They never left my side and just kept running with me. This made a HUGE difference. For CF this is her first 5K of straight running, awesome!! Those new shoes paid off!! (Don’t worry readers, she wore them in before the first run today, 🙂 ). To achieve this 10K means a lot and having these guys and gals next to me is just so amazing! Big shout out to Nick @ Striding Towards Life for dedicating 10K today to Terry Fox and really running for all the children and all the people affected by cancer. We also had another team member run at a location closer to his home, he did his first 6km run, ever! He also did it in 25 minutes; amazing!!! Thanks MD for joining in on the team! 🙂

This was my ultimate goal I set out last year from not running to being able to run this particular 10k straight for charity, I did it. This feels incredible!!! Our team raised $335 for The Terry Fox Foundation!!! Cancer better watch out because there’s going to be a cure and it’s going to get it’s butt kicked out of this world!

If you’ve never heard of Terry Fox, check out The Terry Fox Story – this original movie from 1983 is great. You could also see the newer Terry film from 2005 for a bit of a different more recent retelling of his story and journey. Both are very inspirational movies I’d recommend you watch.

There were moments I wanted to stop and walk, moments where I said to myself it was okay to walk, but in the end, those thoughts were pushed out with, it’s not okay, Terry did a marathon a day with one leg and he didn’t do it for himself! I did it!!! I just kept running and running. Now to keep running and maybe get to a half marathon one day? Slow and steady!! It is no shock any more how slow my pace is compared to most other runners, but especially today, this is not a race. This is all about me and if I do a half marathon (21.1 k / 13.1 m) in 2 1/2 hours or even 3 hours, I will be soooo stoked for finishing.

“The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start”- J. Bingham

I am definitely left speechless with how supportive everyone has been on this journey and how incredible I feel. It’s beyond a runner’s high, it’s happiness and bliss. I am loving life and everything it has to offer.

” I just wish people would realize that anything’s possible if you try; dreams are made possible if you try.” – Terry Fox

Can’t wait for more wonderful journeys to share with you and a healthier, happier life 🙂 .

Tonight I have a few other thoughts to share with you, so the running bit will be short.

September 12 Run: 39:56 minutes, 5.03 km, 7’56″/km

A little slower than the last run but it was still challenging and felt amazing! It’s down to 16°C (61°F)!!!! It’s not 40°C any more!! Yay!!! With that being said, the run felt soooooooo good. I thought I was steady and quick; apparently my time says otherwise, but I loved tonight’s run. I am happy with it and glad I have done it. 3 days to 10K!

Yesterday, I started a 30 day challenge. Similar to all the ones you may find on-line, I’ve drafted my own 30 day challenge to include: push-ups, squats, sit-ups, hip raises, leg raises (single and double), and planks. The biggest challenges here will be starting day 1 at 50 squats & 10 push ups and ending day 30 with 250 squats and 75 push-ups. I’m really excited as day 2 is over and I already feel more confident in doing the push-ups, planks, and squats. I’m stoked to get to the end of the 30 days and be able to do 250 squats!!! It’s getting late here and I want to cover another topic before I end this post so I will post the 30 day challenge as soon as I find time to type it up.

THE TERRY FOX FOUNDATIONI am so happy to share with you that so far we have raised $285 for The Terry Fox Foundation, with another $50 on its way from left over payments from the Silent Auction Fundraiser. From the bottom of my heart, Thank You to everyone who has supported this cause and my team with your words or encouragement and donations. To the anonymous donors to those joining me in this journey to some how complete 10K on Sunday, Thank you!

“I want to set an example that will never be forgotten” – Terry Fox

I am absolutely touched by the bloggers and followers and friends who support me day in and day out. I look forward to your stories for encouragement and for strength when I feel like I have nothing left to draw inspiration from and want to give up. You give me hope that there is still a lot of good in the world.

To every reader out there, I wish you all the happiness in the world that your heart can manage.

Only one week left to the next charity 10 k – The Terry Fox Run. I’m no where close to being able to run 10 k straight through but I will complete 10 k no matter what!

September 8 Run: 37:42 minutes, 5.07 km, 7’26″/km

Today was a much better run! RunRChatts came out and we did the run together. It’s been a while and although I’m sure I’m too slow for him, I was running much faster than I normally do trying extra hard to keep up. Even though I can’t really speak when I’m running (which I know means I’m running too hard) and I have headphones on, the company means a lot. I’m glad he came for a run with me.

Now that the weather is getting a little cooler and running is a little easier, have you been signing up for races? I’m trying to but am finding it hard to commit. For whatever reason, I really want to be running with others and am finding it difficult in getting support. I’m not asking for others to run at my slower pace, but just to have a group at the end who would wait for me and we can all celebrate our success together. Do I need to join a running group to meet running friends or get some encouragement? It’s not that I’m trying to come off as weak and can’t do things by myself, I’d just like to be able to celebrate the wins of finishing a race at the end with someone other than myself. Plus, signing up for races sets goals and targets that I have to hit. I can’t be so wishy washy about running since there are actual finish lines to cross.

There are quite a few runs and races I want to sign up for coming up:
October 6: CIBC Run for the Cure
October 20: Turkey Trot Trail Race (I’ve never even ran trail before?)
December 7: Santa 5K (Everyone has to dress as Santa, it’s part of your race kit!)
December 31: Resolution Run (THIS ONE IS A MUST!! I REALLY WANT TO DO THIS!)

So, if you’re in the area and would like to join me, please let me know if you plan on doing any of these runs, maybe we could meet up for a picture or just high fives.

Even if you’re not in the area, I wish you well in your runs and races coming up! 🙂
Happy Running!

For those of you following who’s in the US or Canada, I hope you’re enjoying the last long weekend of the summer. For those everywhere else, I hope you’re enjoying the weekend even if it is just a regular weekend for you.

I am off to a good start, run today and some weights. We will see what tomorrow brings. My back/left side is in a lot of pain right now. I’m not sure if it is due to the lack of stretching today or maybe I messed up with the weights today, but I’m in a lot of pain! I mean, sitting here not moving hurts! I don’t think it’s all from weights or lack of stretching because my side was already hurting when I was running today. The run wasn’t very tough, very hot yes but the pain was there for quite some time running. I tried stretching a lot while running but I guess that didn’t help. I got it massaged a little bit after working out too and that felt like it made the pain subside but once I stood up the pain started all over again. What’s up with this? I feel like walking is impossible! Sorry I’m just rambling and complaining about this pain but I really hope it goes away before laser tag tomorrow. I’m ready to zap down some kids! Haha.

Only 15 days left to the Terry Fox 10k! I am definitely not ready. Ideally I should have completed 10k now and start tapering down…. What taper?! I still haven’t hit 10k straight in a while, let alone 5! It’s a good thing this isn’t a competition instead it is about getting out there and doing something good. I will definitely train harder so I can one day hit a half marathon. I keep saying it’s the heat that’s keeping me back but it’s probably the humidity and stuffiness. Today’s run was 30% owe my side hurts, keep running, 65% focus on your breathing, steady, innnnnn, out, innnnnn, out, and 5% oh look at that over there or not thinking at all: the best thing and greatness in running – when you don’t even realize you’re running anymore and just loving life.

Like this:

I don’t even know where the rest of last week went after my last blog. Time just flew by with work.

August 26 Run: 31:42 minutes, 4.05 km, 7’50″/km

This was an awfully tough run. It was humid and muggy which means it was just that much harder for me to breathe. I am definitely still struggling with my breathing. It’s tough. Mentally, I thought I had 5k in the bag. From the start I felt aches and pains in spots I’ve never felt. Run them off, so I thought but the run back was just a struggle that stopping at 4 was a decision to protect myself from pushing myself too hard and risking an injury.

My thoughts through the run today were muffled by just focussing on my breathe and trying to find the right rhythm and getting enough air in. Mostly my thoughts would wander back to, am I running for time or running for a distance? Do I run and walk or run slower at a steady pace? I have been reading a lot on running this last year and have read articles that support and bash both of these topics. Which is it? Do I run to hit a certain distance or do I run to hit a specified time? Do I walk in-between? The more I thought and continue to think about this, does it matter? I’m running, that’s all that matters! Just keep running until I can’t run anymore!!! What about you? What do you set your running goals to?

Like this:

I know I’m blogging twice today but I just finished a run and I couldn’t NOT blog.

August 15 Run: 40:14 minutes, 5.31 km, 7’34″/km

A bit of experimentation going on today. Tried a different route in the neighbourhood with less elevation. Run felt MUCH better than the previous and I did it non-stop.

The real reason I am writing is that today I posted my new charity up and have already received great response (The Terry Fox Foundation – “Running” for a Cause). I am lost for words with some of the amazing donations I have received in product for my SILENT AUCTION, monetary, and emotional support. If you haven’t had a chance to check out the Auction, please do. Even if you bid 10% of the value, you could win and I’d be ecstatic to have some more funds go towards the cause. Note a typo on the Auction form: If you win, you can pay in credit card – not just Visa. I will also cover all shipping costs.

Short and sweet as I hope you get to spend time reading my earlier post from the day.

I wrote about this event over a year ago to be my goal to achieve. It’s now official, I’m signed up and fully in fundraising mode!

On September 15, 2013, I will be taking part in the Terry Fox Run in its ongoing work to fund innovative and progressive cancer research programs. I very much hope you will consider joining the team (if you’re in Canada) or making a donation in support of my effort, confident in the knowledge that your kindness will impact the lives of so many people living with cancer.

This is a Walk, Run, or Wheel event with various distances (depending on the location). I encourage you to join our team, Platinum Stars and walk, run, or wheel to a better future. Distances range from 1k to +10k. A 5K walk takes on average less than an hour and less than 12 minutes to walk 1K. There are so many locations available across Canada: Burlington, Niagara on the Lake, St. Catherine’s, Hamilton x 3, Oakville, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, and many more. You can sign up for an event in your local community but be part of the Platinum Stars!! There is no entry fee or minimum donation required. This is not a timed event. This is simply to raise money, awareness, and come together for a greater cause.

Whatever your ability, do this not only for yourself but for those in need. Spare 12 minutes or an hour of your time for a healthier future for you and those around you. If you’d prefer not to participate, please click here and make a donation to support the team.

In the words of Terry, “If you’ve given a dollar, you are part of the Marathon of Hope .”

Terry Fox ran across Canada – ask any Canadian, he did it! Although the evidence suggest that he may not have completed his personal race, his spirit and determination has been ingrained into Canada and I believe Terry Fox completed his Marathon a day across Canada. A true Canadian Icon, Terry Fox has an amazing story; If you’d like to learn more about Terry Fox or The foundation please visit the LEARN MORE page. He was who I wrote my grade 3 Canadian Hero report on and I couldn’t be happier that each of you do support me on each of my journeys to help others. I am also ecstatic that I have made it this far in a year with your support and encouragement from not running at all to running 10K to support The Terry Fox Foundation.

For any donors or participants, I will be doing a raffle for prizes to everyone who’s contributing!!

Brand new items up for grabs in my new Silent Auction in efforts to raise funds includes: a West 49 Gift Card, Movie Passes, Nixon TPS Speaker, Red Star Deck, DC Shoes, a few Long Boards, etc. Check Out theSILENT AUCTION PART 1 HERE!! More items to come shortly!! PLEASE START BIDDING OR DONATING!! 🙂

Thank you to everyone who has supported me and continue to support me by following my blog, liking my posts, encouraging me to run, donating to the auction, donating to the charities I am raising awareness for, and believing in me!!

“It took cancer to realize that being self-centered is not the way to live. The answer is to try and help others.” – Terry Fox

It’s Tuesday and I’m blogging! What? I got out and did a run on a Tuesday night, woohoo! Finally pushed myself after work, dinner, and off the couch!

August 6 Run: 39:15 minutes, 5.22 km, 7’30″/km
Today’s run was amazing! I never stopped to walk once today. I kept a steady comfortable pace and sped up or slowed down when I felt, but constantly pushing. Best run in a very long time. God was testing me for sure. i stepped outside and it started spitting. I didn’t turn around and walk up the drive way, I said, fine, I guess I will run in the rain instead. I went out with the intentions of doing 3k then changed my mind to 4k and ended up doing 5k! Could this be because I did the run at night? Who cares! I feel great!

I’d also love to thank everyone for their support. I know I keep saying it but I truly mean it. Your comments mean a lot, likes, and follows. Thank you for everything!

I am definitely loving life as I had a pretty rough day at work today. I feel like this is déjà-vu and the same time last year I let the same work problems get to me. It’s not so much work because I do love what I do, but the people… There are quite a few who are dedicated and love the culture we are in and have a passion for our company, but then there are obviously the ones who are there for a pay-cheque and just don’t fit in. It does get to me how some people can make it through a job when they blatantly don’t care. I won’t rant too much because it has flown on and I’ve left it outside with my footprints.

Today is a new week and today I take a provisional run. I’m away next Saturday and the chances that I wake up early to run at the cottage are slim to none. I’d also like to clock in a few more runs this week and get myself out of the once a week ritual.

August 4 Run: 39:19 minutes, 5.02 km, 7’50″/KM

WOAH! That’s some slow running but I did get through 5K and I’m super happy and proud of myself for that. My first KM was again my best at 6:46. Then it went all downhill from there, not literally through, I WISH! Literally, it was all uphill from there. These new paths I’m running have a lot of challenges for someone who is accustomed to flat runs. I never thought it would impact me so much, but it is tough! I’ve learned to try to think or focus on anything else when I get to an incline and just think step-step-step-left-right-left-right-etc. until I feel the path isn’t so challenging. I’m not making excuses for my slower times but this new neighbourhood has got me working that much harder! Any-who, it wasn’t too bad, I ran 1 KM, walked 1 minute, ran another KM, walked a minute until I was done the distance goal I had set.

Who cares what the pace is? I read that yesterday. It’s true, Pace is relative and I will set a realistic and challenging goal for myself each run. Whether it is to run 30 minutes or to run 5K, my goal is my focus. Pace is my own standard and not a comparison. I am at awe with all the other blogs and runners I am catching up on. I truly appreciate each and every one of you for reading my blog and sharing your stories. Your support and openness helps me be a better me. Thank you!

So, that’s two runs in two days, wohoo! Go Me!! I’ve also done a bit of off-road exercising with some dumbbells as well; yay, strength!

What a shocker, another week another single run. I’m not disappointed though, I had a great few days off last weekend: one run, relaxed, cleaned the house, went to the Canadian Open, and enjoyed life. I have started making changes in my life again as I slipped and started eating what I wanted but tooooo much of it. It’s not about dieting, but it’s about moderation. Why do I need to eat a large bag of chips in one sitting, I don’t! Or an entire bag of gummy bears? I don’t! So, it’s time to go back to portioning my eating, like a small bowl of chips for one sitting, not the entire bag, or paying more for smaller portions (i.e. candy packages) to limit my consumption.

August 3 Run: 30:38 minutes, 4.01 km, 7’38″/KM

Okay, so it seems a little slower and a little less than 5 K, a whole KM shorter! But today’s plan was to run and meet a friend at a location where he would have his car. I got there at around 3.5 km and had to run up and down the street until I hit 4 KM then called it quits. My next run will have to be 5 K, I find that’s a great point to always achieve. With walking in between, I will get my 30 minutes of exercise in but also a distance that I can be completely proud of. Of course 4 KM is HUGE for a beginner runner… How long can I keep calling myself a beginner? It’s been over a year of steady on off running so I really am just a runner. I want to run more!!

They say money can’t buy happiness and I beg to differ. The image above sums it up. If I had money, I could work whenever I want and run whenever I want. I would have time to cook healthier meals instead of opting for fast food and pre-made meals. If I had money, I could buy more awesome running related product which is kind of happiness because I love that stuff… So, this might make me seem shallow or very materialistic to some but come on, you have to admit, when you get that awesome new shirt, all you want to do is take off the tags, put it on, and go for a run! You Run with this new shirt on with pride and somehow, you seem to go just that little bit faster on your first run with it, YOU ARE UNSTOPPABLE! It happens to all of us, we get caught up in the things associated to what we love. We love to run and so we are consumed by the materials that surround running. What’s my point here? I just wish I had a bit more time!! Not necessarily money but more time and well, we all know Time is Money.

I am off from work today and tomorrow! Needed to take a mini vacation and here we are.
July 25 Run: 38:09 minutes, 5.01 km, 7’37″/km

I’d like to say this time off has been off to a wonderful start. Already got out for one run, hopefully another before Monday. Seems I am off to a great start on my runs in my new neighbourhood and then taper off. Stupid hills. My first km today was 6:06!!! It’s been a while since I’ve run at that pace but of course, I slowed down once the hills hit. I also ran at intervals today. 6 minute on, 1 walk, 5 run, 1 walk, then a series of 3 minute running and 1 minute walking until I hit 5 k at 38 minutes.

Some other greatness to share; my chest did not hurt the last two runs. This could be due to the inhaler or the heat wave leaving us. Or maybe it’s a combination of two. I still can’t breathe very well in terms of getting big enough breathes in so I’m struggling with huffing and puffing but the pain is gone, so that’s really good news for me! Super excited to run some more!!

I’ve also signed up for my next 10k and my charity, I’ll be posting about it more later one once I get some more info.

Here we are again, a week later and I’ve finally been able to clock in my me time to run.

As challenging as running is for me, it is still my favorite pastime.

July 21 Run: 36:03 min, 4.78 km, 7’34″/km

The run was sooooo much better. A good 17 degrees Celsius feeling like 23 only this morning. I can breathe again!! Sort of.. I used the inhaler and felt a bit better. No record speeds but did get a longer distance in this time around. I had a great run, 20 minute run, 2 minute walk, 6 minute run, 1 minute walk, 3 minute run, 1 minute walk, and 3 minute run. Then a big cool off walk after. Felt amazing!!! I’d also like to give a shout out to runrchatts for coming out and following my pace, you’re awesome!

What a beautiful Saturday morning it is here! I thought it was a lot cooler but it’s actually just the lack of humidity. It is 23°C and feels like 28. I still got out there, even if I chose to wear kapris instead of shorts… silly me…

July 13 Run: 21:43 minutes, 3.06 km, 7’05″/km

Wohoo, my speed went up a little bit from the last two runs but maybe that’s because I did a short run and it wasn’t so humid. 3K sounds like nothing compared to what I was able to push myself to so that is disappointing to feel that 3 kilometres has already kicked my butt! I am happy that I did go and run and that I can still get 3k under my belt. It’s better than 0!

It’s tough thinking I am running once a week. I envy each of you for running every day or multiple times a week – most of you have kids, a family, and I’m sure a much busier life than I. My town-house is still yet to be completed with the cleaning. There is just so much to do, it’s never ending. Not to mention work has been extremely busy and I’ve had to put in a couple work nights and will be working a little bit over the weekend as well. This coming week won’t get any better with how busy work will be but I am excited to be out for another run soon! Getting out and moving is really what matters at the moment.

Back to running. I finally picked up the inhaler… but FORGOT to use it before my run as the doctor recommended. I felt like there was something I was missing all morning when I was getting ready but thought, Shoes, Watch, Music, Gum, I’m good! Less than half a km away from home, I start working on regulating my breathing and realize I forgot to use the inhaler. Of course at this point I’ve already done my warm up walk and began running, I didn’t want to turn back. Maybe I’ll remember next run and I’ll be able to breathe better!!

I’m enjoying life and enjoying the company I have ❤
I am hoping to find more time to enjoy more of the things I love, run, golf, and read.

On a side note, for all you ladies out there, what do you work out in? I’ve been set on kapris (slim fit) but now that the summer is hot, I need shorts. I’ve tried many shorts. I have tried what you say are running shorts (built in undies and loose fiiting), and I have some longer tight shorts above the knee. Here’s my problem, I have meaty thighs (which is why I need to run more!). The tights are too tight around my thighs at the edge where the sewing is (they taper in too much for skinny people). The running shorts ride up my hoo-haa when I start running (my meaty thighs rub together and pull the shorts up in the middle), so I’m left pulling them down every two seconds. Is there nothing made for me??? I can’t go with tight shorts in a larger size because they start falling down my hips. I can’t go for running shorts in a larger size so that there’s length because they start falling down my hips. I know most runners have this ideal body type but I know a lot of you are just like me, beginner and trying to get in shape. How do you dress for these hot days and you’re being physical?

I may be an occasional runner right now, but don’t you worry, I have not broken up with running, never! ❤

I’m a little lost for words today… I haven’t even started my run plan yet…

July 7 Run: 30:16 min, 3.69 km, 8’11″/km I couldn’t run…

I couldn’t breathe.. My stomach/lungs were clenched.. RunRChatts wanted to get out there today so I went with him… Bad choice for me sleeping in because when he showed up ready, I rolled out of bed, changed, chugged down some water and ate a few energy chews and off I went. I dragged held him back for about 1.5 kms (a little lost in the new neighbourhood) and he went off and cycled back to me later on. From that point on, I did 2 minute run and 1 minute walk until I hit 30 minutes. Could it be the humidity today? It’s 26°C, feels like 35 with 73% humidity.

It seems that mentally I get super motivated and then somehow I get discouraged and end up doing nothing. Mostly, there’s no excuse, it’s just accepting that I’m lazy. WHY?

So, I’m disappointed with myself for dying for the summer to come so I wouldn’t have to run on the treadmill… Summer is here and I don’t want to leave my couch. What’s going on and why can’t I fight this heat?

I was definitely too optimistic when I wanted to sign up for every run possible this summer. I struggle getting myself out the door in this heat. Especially when there’s no sun and it’s this hot!

We were planning to run 5k and I couldn’t even get to 4. On the plus side, I did just get out there and move. Although the running was quite slower than any of my other runs I can ever remember, I did run.

What do you do to stay motivated in this heat???

I hope you’re having better luck than I with your relationship with running!!I know it’s not luck, it’s your dedication and willpower that keeps you going!!! Keep it up!! Thanks for reading, you’re and inspiration to me!!!!

Yes, I’m here and alive!!! I don’t even know where to start. I’ll start with the run. FINALLY, after over a month I picked up my lazy butt and went for a run. It wasn’t a far run but it was great and challenging nonetheless.

June 29 Run: 27:15 min, 3.5 km, 7’46″/km

I couldn’t end this month with not running once! I had big hopes to run a lot of KMs this month, beat my May total (I’ve increased my total runs/kms each month since January), and run on my birthday but that fell through 😦 … Well despite all the slacking I got out today and that’s all that matters. My GPS watch didn’t pick up a signal so the KMs is based on my footpod, I don’t think the distance is too far off. I had to walk at 2 km and 3 km just to give my breath a moment to catch itself. The new neighbourhood is quite peaceful and quiet. Not as many runners compared to where I was before but hopefully I start spotting more the more I get out there.

Regarding my breathing and allergies, I’ve seen a doctor and I’ve received an inhaler but I have not gone to pick it up yet. He said that allergies have been extremely high this year too so that could also affect me since I sneeze at basically everything! Hopefully, once I get this inhaler, I can regulate my breathing better and run MUCH MUCH MUCH faster.

My plan is to follow an 8 K Program. I’ll post this later on once I actually begin it. The plan is to run 8 km in 50 minutes. That is standard but apparently it’s going to be very difficult for me. That’s cutting almost 2 minutes per km!!! That’s huge!! But, I had the initial plan to run 5 km in 30 minutes so this plan will hopefully get me there! And you know what, If I don’t get to that average runner speed, who cares?! I’m out there running and doing something I love that’s good for me! 😀

I’ve finally hooked up my computer today and it doesn’t seem to want to cooperate. I’m now settled into my new home but there is still a lot of work to get done. There’s dirty dishes, dirty floors, dirty laundry, dirty bathrooms, etc. I’m sure you get the point. But with all of this in my life, it’s nothing new. YOU, fellow runner/athlete/blogger, find time to do what you love most! Why can’t I?! It’s time to stop being lazy and prioritize!!

I went a little AWOL on running in the last month but no more! I may have taken a break but don’t think I quit on you! Running world, I am back and I will keep at it! You know, you’re a runner when every morning heading into work, I would get extremely sad seeing all the runners. All I did was wish, why can’t I make time?! Why am I so lazy right now?! Excuses no more, running, I am here to stay!!

I would like to share with you that in the last month I have not been completely slacking. I’ve found a new love in Golf. I grew up always interested but never really tried it out. This sport actually requires a lot more physical fitness than you may think. I’ve chosen to spend some time at the driving range over running and well, I need to balance my schedule out a little better. This month, I played my first 18 holes and loved it. I love both golf and running and I will make time for both! Running will only improve my game! 🙂

SOOOOOO.. I’m a little frustrated as this computer doesn’t seem to want to be working. I keep typing and my computer keeps crashing. I’ve lost this a couple of times and a few paragraphs have not been restored. Hopefully I covered all the key things I wanted to… There’s so much more to share with you and so many blogs I need to get caught up on. I hope you’ve been doing better than I and kept up with your passions in life. Until my next run, enjoy your life!!

Happy Mother’s Day to all you readers! You’re all very special and cherished. I had the privilege to take my mom out for a lovely lunch today after my 10K race. Although exhausted from being awake at 4:30 am, I made it rough, inhaled some awesome vermicelli, and spent some time with my momma. Great day!

Now that I’m home and a bit more rested, I can tell you all about the big race!

May 12 Sporting Life 10k Race: 1:11:11, 10.30 km, 6’54″/km

This day started extremely early with needing to wake up and shower (yes, shower before a race to wake me up), eat, digest, and get myself to the race. Thankfully I went to bed early and got a decent amount of rest. Weather was horrible, somewhere around 6°C but felt more like 2°C… I didn’t mind until about an hour into the wait and my toes were going numb. I met up with two fellow teammates before the run, wished them luck and lined up in our respective corrals. We missed the other three members; it’s tough finding three people in a sea of over 27,000! One of our runners is injured so he didn’t run today. I did get to see everyone from the team who ran at the end. I came last in my team but I am super stoked with my personal best! Huge shout outs to runrchatts on the team who also achieved his personal best today too! You’re awesome, thank you for all of your help training me!

The event was a bit confusing… I lined up just because I read online and have been to a race before but there wasn’t any real announcement I could hear, maybe I was too far back? We had no clue if the elites had started or not. Half an hour later we started moving towards the start. Off I went. I avoided the first water station… Originally to be at the 3k, it appeared at the 4k… It was a disaster! No water on the first five tables, just a mess.. The last two had a few poor kids trying to pour and hand water as fast as they can. I relied on my Nike fuel belt. At 6 and 8 k i had a couple gummies – Honey Stingers from one of my coworkers/running mates who had given me earlier in the week. Not sure if they helped but they didn’t slow me down. I did pick up water for a few sips at 7 k as I was running low on my belt. I ran on… On and on and on… Actually, it didn’t feel all that long! I was hoping to have had a pace bunny to follow but there were none… I ran all on my own today, no partner, just my watch and iPod to keep me focused and on track.

Crazy enough, this was an amazing run for me! I had this insane kick at the end for the last 400 meters where I ran up to 4’47″/km! I am disappointed as I could have started my kick much earlier! I had so much fuel left… Oh well. I’ll know better next time. Yes, I will definitely do another 10K! Besides, this one was all downhill, and it was an extra 300 m. I also ran without the ugly run face. Satisfied with my challenging yet comfortable pace I was running. I felt happy and confident.

I felt great this run! I was content and just floated on. I coast by the run… Maybe that’s a hint that I was not fast enough for myself, but I did keep checking my watch to make sure I wasn’t going too fast, to tire myself out, or too slow, to finish at my 1 hour 14 minute goal. I beat that goal and I finished the race without walking!

There was a LOT of self talk this run but a lot of good talks… Well.. Chants… Each time I got a little bit discouraged by losing the runner I was following pace with (or seeing that I was running at the same speeds walk/runners were), I had to keep telling myself, THIS IS MY RUN! and THIS IS MY RACE! And I did just that, I ran for me and raced myself. Everyone around was just an obstacle on the street and a distraction to look at, not a competitor.

Woohoo! More collectables for my shoe box!

I got my medal, water, bananas, and met up with the team. Took a few photos and tried to get myself warmed up ASAP! Of course I warmed up from the running but standing around down by Lake Ontario gets cold quick when wind gusts are huge and a storm is rolling in. Hail started hitting shortly in the day, luckily I had found my way to my mom’s already.

Most importantly, our team raised money for Camp Ooch. As a team we have raised $1163!!!! A little shy of sending a child to camp for an entire week, but we did hit over 5 days! I hope some kid(s) really enjoys their time! 🙂
Thank you to everyone who has helped support this cause, support me, and volunteer at the event!!!

I am super excited to start my next fundraising initiative and sign up for more races!!

Today marks 1 year since I went for my first run. It would have been awesome if my friend could have joined me who pushed me (we pushed each other) to run. As mentioned, she’s been injured so I ran the same route we did last year as a tribute (+1 km).

Can you believe it? I can’t! So, how far have I really come?

Last year I died trying to accomplish 3 km and this year… I still struggled! But that’s okay, this year, I ran the entire time without having to walk so that’s a great improvement!!! I do have to say, I went into this thinking I would run the lap we did around the block twice, but that was out of question after the first km, my legs were BURNING! So… No more running until the big 10k this Sunday!

I still weigh the same (or slightly heavier..) but at least I’m doing something that I’m passionate about and is healthy for me!!

In the past year, I’ve found a new me, a new love, a new outlook. Despite what others may not see as any changes, I am a happier person. I’d be happier if I could just shed a few pounds instead of gaining constantly but I’ll give it some more time. Besides, I still want to have my chicken wings and pizza! Mmmmm…. Wish I had some right now!

I’ve come so far, I’ve invested a lot of money into running gear that I would have never thought I’d need. Let me tell you, running isn’t as cheap as some people make it out to be. I’ve even gone so deep and started trying energy bars for pre and post runs to make sure I get the nutrients I need. I’ve spent money on a new pair of shoes, GPS watch, a Nike fuel band, a hydration belt, running clothes, the previously mentioned power bars, and so far down to hair elastics and pins. I’m sure I’ve spent much more on many other things but I’m not too worried, if it’s motivation to keep me going, I’ll take it!

Every run I run for me but every run I run for a cause and am always reminding myself to never stop and keep going for those who wished they could. I will always run to better my health but I will do what I can to help wherever I can.
I know I am not the fastest, nor am I progressing as fast as many other female runners I read about… Sometimes I am at awe by the stories I read and wonder, I was never that big so why does it seem so much harder for me? Maybe I need to push harder this summer and not fall off during fall/winter. I will set new goals and work harder!

Discovering the online blog community, falling for the running family, following inspirational blogs, and receiving your support has meant the world to me. You fuel my runs.

I feel I have lived this past year to the fullest, learned a lot from it, and grown to become better. I’m sure there are points I am missing that may be key to my past year, but all that matters is I continue to lace up and run! 🙂

Unfortunately, a little slower than my last. A bit disappointed because I am not completely drained but I also didn’t have enough willpower to kick it in the end either… despite it all, it’s okay, I ran! I was running with a hydration belt with two 6oz bottles. Extremely annoying! I tried this as practice for the 10k since there are only two water stations: 3 and 7 km. I don’t think I can wear it. The bottles bounce up and down way too much. I don’t want to run holding, carrying, or strapping anything either. I feel like I’m out of options. What do you do for hydration during longer runs?

Like this:

My run today was short and at 11:40 AM. Yes, I got up, changed, and went for a run to kick off my lunch break at work. I don’t normally take lunch breaks but I am going to start! I set a goal to run around a few streets (1 lap). Turns out it was a little over 2 km and no where near long enough; I was hungry for more all afternoon! I also did the run the fastest I have in a while, under 7 minutes per km. I was sweaty getting back to work but felt great. I’m very proud of myself because I haven’t ran the last two nights and kind of regret not running. I love it, I should be doing it more. I will do it more!

May 1 Run: 13:24, 1.3 miles / 2.1 km (not sure what my Nile+ even said before I updated to the correct distance)

Like this:

Yes, it is still morning and I’ve already been out for a run, I think it’s time to hit the sack as I’ve completed my goals for the day. Ha, yeah right! There’s still laundry and cleaning at bay!

April 27 Run: 46 minutes, 3.73 miles (6km, 6.42 km on Nike+)

Today’s run time consisted of ONLY my run time, no warm up or cool down. Luckily, I was able to get to run with runrchatts again today. Without him, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have run in the morning. THANK YOU! 😀 He was only free for the morning so that’s why I ran in the morning. Oh and as I blog, he’s still out running now!!

We got outside and I told him today I wanted to do 6 km, I have no other plans other than to just run and finish 6km. We did 6 km straight but it was a struggle for me. After 1/4 of a km I was already exhausted and wanted to stop. I felt really bad about the slow pace I was going as I could tell it was too easy for rchatts. At 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, and 5.5 km, I noticed how hard it was for me to breathe. I like running with rchatts because he has his GPS on his armband which is next to the side I run on; so every time I catch up to him, I’m able to see the true distance since my Nike+ App is wrong on my iPod Nano. I was panting for air every time but the run was worth it. It was 46 minutes of straight running, that’s only 3.2% of my day! Sounds so insignificant to the overall when it does so much for the bigger picture.

Breathing is still a struggle for me on some days and today was horrible. It has to come…. My breath is just not there… there’s something blocking my lungs and I can feel my body stopping my breathes from going down my throat. What’s my problem? I’ve tried doing breathing exercises while I’m not running, focussing on my breathe as much as I can but very little improvement has come. Do you have any suggestions?

GPS RUNNING WATCH: Do you wear a running watch of some sort? Do you have a GPS watch? What do you run with? Please share and provide me with your feedback on your product of choice or even negative feedback on others. I’m contemplating getting the Nike+ GPS Watch but I’ve heard Garmin is really good (just pricey). I would really appreciate any insight from you as I really want to be able to keep track of my own progress when I run on my own.

It’s going to be a beautiful weekend, I hope you get outside and enjoy it! 🙂

Just a side note, we are all runners. I’ve found it offensive when people say I jog or ask if I’m going for a jog. I don’t quite know why. Maybe it’s because every time I run, I am RUNNING.Even if my all is slower than the norm, I give it my all. I am not a jogger.

My body has been tired since Monday’s 10k run. I felt tired still today but forced myself to run. I’ve gained three pounds this week from bad food choices, I had to run! Tonight’s run consisted of a 5 minute walk, 20 minute run, then a series of 1 minute light running at 4-5 mph and 1 minute runs with the runs speeding up to 6 mph (my average challenging pace is 5 mph)! I had wanted to stop after 5 minutes of running, then 10… Then I just kept setting another 5 minute mark. Then I realized, I can’t stop until I hit 5K as I told my VP at work today that I would run tonight if he did. I have to keep my integrity, which is what I did! I just made 5K on the 40 minutes I set on the treadmill, whew! Luckily, tonight, I had Eminem to push me through and get lost in the moment with.

I’m not too tired now. My body has just been malnourished and stuffed with junk this week. I’m nervous but excited for the 10K. I want to finish that and start planning for more runs. I’d like to do more 5K runs and can’t wait to sign up for some!

Unfortunately, tonight was a treadmill run and a 10K Plan run. I’m finding a lot more enjoyment running outside and loving running a whole lot more when I do it outside. If I’m on a treadmill and I want to run faster so I can finish faster, I have to think too much (what speed am I increasing by, how much time do I knock off of the time set on the treadmill, etc.). The run itself was fairly tough. 5 minute walk followed by three 21 minutes and 36 second run intervals with a 1 minute walk in between and a 5 minute cool down. The first interval was okay and I thought the following two would be just as challenging but manageable; I was wrong. The second one was extremely tough! By the third interval, my ARMS were tired of running. That’s no typo, my arms were actually really tired and didn’t want me to go on anymore. In the end, I finished it and I’m happy I did even though it was hard. I have tried to run the last two nights and ended up going to bed sad I didn’t; but it’s okay now, I ran! 🙂

Advice: NEVER EVER have a spoonful of icing before running… Yes, Betty Crocker icing is one of my many guilty pleasures and I decided to have a spoonful before my run today. Darn my silly sweet tooth! Anyways, the taste of that coming up while running, not so good.

In other great news, I’ve found a new home!!! I’ll be moving in June 1st!!! I don’t know the area very well but it’s a convenient location with many amenities close by. The neighbourhood seems safe to run in, which was key to looking for a new place! I’m very excited to be moving here as it will feel like a real home. It’s a townhouse with a back yard and front yard. No more apartment! Wohoo! 🙂

In addition to that great news, I have even more exciting news: I’ve made my goal of raising $250 for Camp Oochigeas! Thank you to two lovely ladies at work! I am still fundraising so if you’d like to donate a couple bucks, please do so by clicking here or read more here.

This weekend may end up being a rest weekend since I’ll be out of the city and in Toronto to cheer some runners on at the Yonge Street 10k. I’ll be cheering on random strangers but also Runrchatts, I Hate/Love Running, and Eric Y. at the finish line!! I’m super stoked to be in the crowd. I’m definitely jealous that these guys are all getting a medal as I can’t wait to get mine in May! I’ve made a few signs, I’ll only show two for now. Good luck everyone running a race this weekend!!!

Only 3 more weeks until my 10k run!! Wohoo!!! I’m not sure if I’ll be sticking to the plan so much anymore as time is getting too close and I don’t want to over-run. I may start slowing down my runs after another week. Who knows. I’ll just listen to my body and run. 🙂

Ok, so I initially wanted to run a short run yesterday and then take two days off before my big run again. That didn’t happen last night, so I had to run my big run tonight. It was tough mentally. Physically I feel like my legs can keep going if I forced them to rut now (despite how sore they felt while I was actually running). I wasn’t mentally fighting the run, I just felt exhausted. I thought about why I just wanted to shut my brain off and pick up a good read or watch some mindless show over running. Quickly I realized it must be from work: a few new analytical reports over the last two days have rendered my brain useless. I have also been stressing out a bit with finding a new place. Running on the treadmill I get nervous that I’m the jerk making all the noise while someone who might need some rest can’t. So, I have less than two months to find a new home, pack, and move. I guess I do need to focus on living a healthy well rounded life to run happier and easier.

Anyways, the run is done and my mind is done. Time for water and a bit of reading then bed.
Cheers!

WOHOOO! My Nike+ actually showed the correct distance I ran today!!! I actually ran indoors on my treadmill since it’s raining pretty hard out. Today’s intervals went as such: 5 minute warm up, and 3 intervals of 20 minutes 24 seconds run with a 1 minute walk in between each interval and ending with a 5 minute walk. Today’s run was supposed to be easy with two rest days since my 5K run on Saturday (more to come in the next paragraphs). The first two intervals weren’t too bad but the last one was challenging: not only was I starting to get the sense that maybe I’m getting bored (because it’s a treadmill and not the beauty of nature), I also felt my toes and my left hamstring starting to tense up and become too tired/sore. I pushed through it and just kept moving on to keep me on pace to doing the 10k in May. Now I may be taking another 2 rest days before doing this run again as I have to do this run another 2 more times before advancing. Let’s see how my legs feel in two days time.

5k Harry Rosen Run: First off, I’d like to send huge thanks to runrchatts for coming out, pacing me, and supporting me for the run! Without you, I wouldn’t have done as well as I did, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Second, this is my Personal Best 5K during a race (I’ve only done two but this is my first chipped race). I did 5KM in 35:04:04…. Yes, 4:04 seconds short of my goal!! I am definitely disappointed with this as I lost about 40 seconds in the last half km due to the race finishing on a hill. They warned us there was a hill… after the 4th KM I thought I hit the hill and mentally got myself up this “hill” for about 500 metres. When we hit the a flat for 100 I was excited the hill was over and I could speed up for the end. Unfortunately, the last 300m was the real hill! I think I got up about 2/3 of the way (but it was probably half) before my legs froze. Honestly, I didn’t think I hit a wall. I thought I had this and fought every part of my body to keep going but somehow my legs just stopped moving. Even walking up the hill seemed impossible at the time. Is this the Wall? Well, I made it. I ran the entire race up to that point (about 31 minutes straight). How did my legs freeze and feel like I was stoned from the waist down? Is this really what the wall is or is this just due to lack of hill training? Anyways, who cares, I hit a personal best which I will surely be beating later this year! Third, after all of that, I would like to assure you that I indeed am proud of myself for running this 5k and completing the race. Forth, I’d like to give a shout out to I Hate/Love Running who also ran this run! We’ve never met and I recently started following his run blog and stumbled across his post about running this same race (but the 8km one)! Congrats on your awesome time. Lastly, who runs when they are cold?! I couldn’t feel my toes for the 1.5 km at least. This was the weirdest feeling! Let’s make note to always stay warm before a run starts!

It may be hard to see, but I’m actually not touching the ground in the photo to the left! This is a photo captured by the event and wants $60 for the actual photo so all I have is a blurry thumbnail to share. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS PHOTO! I’m almost like the silhouette of the runner in the header of my blog who’s running in thin air over water. If I didn’t have such a miserable face, I may have considered buying this photo. Also, as you can see, runrchatts was always pushing me and cheering me on: even at the end he pushed me to sprint to the finish line to beat him in the last however many feet. Thanks 🙂

Things I’ve learned from this run:
1. I did not know I was the ugly runner! When we first got to the run, the 8k race was just starting so we cheered all the runners on. We watched and hollered for these athletes running their hearts out as I knew I would need that cheering in an hour. We were picking out the runners who made it look too easy and the ones who just looked like they were dying and struggling. Those runners who looked like they hated their lives (I gave them an extra cheer). Turns out, I’m one of those runners! The pictures posted for the results show me as that struggling, angry runner. It looks like I’m tormenting myself. Who knew?
2. When you’re “racing” in a 5k and in the 2nd last coral, you’re not really racing. You’re racing yourself. So my question, why do people find the need to be jerks? I had a girl in her teens elbow by me at around the 3km mark, rchatts had a couple strollers whizz right by him, and I had a few ladies blocking me in. So, the question is why???? We ended up passing the strollers and the ladies with our steady pace and to top it all off, during each of these occurrences, there was a ton of space around us for passing. Anyways, that’s my little rant for the race etiquettes that some people clearly do not care for.
3. In line with the previous note, I am not running these races to compete with the elites. I am competing against myself. This is a sport to me where the goal is to beat myself and be better than I was the day before. Yes, it’d be great to be amazing and #1, but that’s not my goal and that’s not where I plan on heading. This race solidified that thought and just proved that I do want to keep challenging myself to be a better me, not be better than someone else.
4. I want to run more 5k races!! It’s a good time (not too long) and a good challenge! I think the 10k will be tough for me and I’ll still do the 10 K in May and the 10 K Terry Fox Run in September but I definitely want to do many more 5K races!! Despite having the horrible face while I run, I actually do enjoy running! I can’t wait to finish the Sporting Life 10 K race in May and start signing up for more 5K races. I’ve already been looking a bunch up and might even travel to be able to do some.
5. This was a very well organized run! There was a lot of water, food, great energy and just an awesome place to be for runners, supporters, and volunteers. I had a blast just watching all the 8k runners start and finish! I had a blast completing my run. Thank you to everyone involved for putting this together.

I had a pretty exciting and long weekend. Run Saturday Morning, friend’s dinner Saturday night, and celebratory Blue Jays game Sunday. I surprised rchatts with Jays tickets for all of his help with my running and being a great and supportive friend. There wasn’t much celebrating for the Jays since they lost horribly but it was still fun getting out to my first Jays game of the season! I was so tired yesterday I went to work and barely made it through the day but all in all I had a great weekend!

In other news, I’d like to share some awesome information with regards to my efforts to raise money for Camp Oochigeas. Myself and my running team have been working hard to raise money for this charity (if you’d like a refresher, read more about the charity and my goals from my previous post Running for Fun). So, the Penny has been put to rest in Canada. In respect, I had started a Penny Drive around my office for the month of March. I had also mentioned I would match whatever we raised in the office and donate it to one of the fellow members of our team. We raised $43.27 in the office! I have matched that and donated $50 to one of our other runners. Thank you everyone for chipping in and searching for those lost coins or just emptying out your pockets for a day to support this cause! My personal goal is to raise $250 to send a sick child to camp for a day, I am currently at $243.27!!! Only $7 away. I hope our team can muster up enough support and raise enough money to send a child to camp for a week ($1750). THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS DONATED AND SUPPORTED!! If you’d like to donate some change, you can do so here (the site is secure and does not charge you any transaction fees). Every little bit helps! 😀

I’m a bit behind on my blog readings and I apologize for this but I will be spending tomorrow night catching up on your blog!

That’s all for tonight folks! Thank you for reading and supporting!
Good Night,

Today I have run my furthest distance yet and I didn’t even eat dinner yet! I’ll be munching on food as I blog, so don’t worry, I’m getting my energy back in!

April 3 Run: 66 min, 5.35 miles (8.61 KM or 8.13 km on Nike+)

This run was back on the treadmill because it feels like -6° C outside right now. I am definitely praying for good weather for this Saturday. The forecasts have changed up and down from Sun, Rain, Snow, Rain, Sleet, Flurries, and now Sun again. Fingers crossed we get sun or snow (no rain). I am hoping to hit a PB (Personal Best) on this race!!

Now to get back to today’s run. I was hungry and wanted to eat first but I really don’t want to be such a bother and run too late with my “loud” treadmill (I even put mats under it now). So, I got home, went out for a walk, then ran on the treadmill… Yes, I understand if I can walk outside for 30 minutes, I probably could have just done the 1 hour run outside. I feel awesome right now. I haven’t done a third set of anything on this plan and felt great, but after my strategic two-day rest (instead of one), I feel like I destroyed today’s run. The first two intervals of 18 minutes I ran at 5 mph (my standard). The last 18 minutes I ran at 5.4 mph; Why? Because that puts me at a pace of 11.07 minutes per miles or roughly 6.56 minutes per km. Why am I crazy enough to increase my pace by so much? Because this is the pace I need to do Saturday to Hit 5K in 35 minutes.

I know running is about overcoming my own struggles and beating my own records, but after reading yours and other fellow runners’ blogs, I feel I need to really get in the game! I am definitely running charity runs to raise money and awareness. I am still fundraising for Camp Oochigeas and also running To Fight Prostate Cancer at Harry’s Spring Run-Off this Saturday; so don’t forget to support where you can! 🙂

Anyways, back to the run, it was a little bit of a struggle but really, nothing I haven’t faced before and nothing too challenging; it was manageable. You know what this means? It means I CAN run faster.

Oh, I’ve also wanted to bring up something about running. Today I was talking to two of my teammates running the Sporting Life 10K with me this May. They were telling me about techniques, plans, and such. One thing that came up with Tempo runs. So, I’ve looked a bit into this before and read about your runs and other runners who have different run schedules. Am I doing a Tempo run? Does it count? I thought I’m doing intervals but really what does it matter? Running to me is Tying up my shoes and running my heart out! Whether I run at 5 mph or 20 mph, I am running and to me, that’s all that matters right now. Yes, I would like to get faster and better, but I think that will come with time. I do focus on a pace, a time, and a distance goal, but ultimately, I just want to run and finish a run. Too much analytical and not enough physical!

Unfortunately, a little slower than the last run; didn’t hit the distance today, but I did finish and charged through the last 6 or 7 minutes with all that I had. Hands in a fist, short quick strides and ran on like a machine; at least I felt like a robot for those moments. The earlier part of the run was extremely challenging. I couldn’t breathe right, my stomach was/still is upset, I couldn’t find a comfortable stride, and I really just wanted to lay in bed all day today. Honestly, today felt more like a run than any other day. Most of the time I just glide by and my steps seem to be moving the way they should but today I really noticed my steps were shorter. As hard as I tried to float on, I just had to run instead. Luckily I had a run partner again today to pace me and chase after.

Don’t get me wrong, I am super happy I completed the run. Early when runrchatts kept pushing me and encouraging me to find my breathe, I found myself saying “I Can’t!”. In that moment, I broke my own heart. How could those words come out?!! No matter how tough the run is, I CAN!!

I guess that’s what I get for having two pints of beer last night. I know it’s not a lot, but that’s probably the most booze I’ve consumed in one sitting this year. I wasn’t wasted or hung over, my stomach just wasn’t so happy with me this morning. I did have a good time catching up with a couple friends last night and enjoyed sleeping in this morning.

The plan I set for myself is to run one, rest one. Yesterday was a rest day and this was though (I really wanted to go for a 5k record yesterday after reading a bunch of inspiring blogs with beating record times: Set up for Success, My First 5K!!!, and Excitement and Disappointment). During my run today, I just kept thinking, how is my body still so sore after a rest day yesterday? I am eating healthy and all the right foods, but it has dawned on me that I may not be eating enough still; regardless of what all these recommended daily intake plans/diets/whatever you want to call them suggest. I think it’s time to start eating a bit more on my rest and run days. Yay!!!

Speaking of which, I’m off to enjoy some Easter treats, mmm. Hope you all enjoy the day!

It’s a beautiful day outside. Today, is Good Friday and I get the day off work. Couldn’t have been better planned, 5° C outside. Perfect for getting back out for the first outdoor run of the year!

March 29 Run: 66 minutes, 5.22 miles (8.40 km, 9.06 km on Nike+)

I’d like to thank fellow runner and blogger runrchatts for coming out here and running with me today. He obviously kept pace with me but it was great having someone who knew my pace and kept it for those moments I needed to step it up a little bit.

After my last blog things were challenging in life. By things I mean everything and I even had the split moments considering if I should just quit running. I stumbled across this inspirational image/quote to the right and just realized, I’m a runner!
I would also like to thank everyone for the encouragement and support after my last blog. It honestly helps knowing that I’m not quite alone here, you are motivating and helping me stay strong. Thank you thestripedstrawberry, diannegray, I’maRunner?, and Emma D. They all have great blogs you should check out too! Thank you everyone who follows, reads, like, shares, and support. 🙂

So, let’s talk running. Today’s run was my longest distance and longest time. I will be repeating this run two more times before increasing the time again. The run was as follows for 10:1, 5 minute walk, 18 minute run, 1 minute walk, 18 minute run, 1 minute walk, 18 minute run, and 5 minute cool down walk. All in all, I had a better run than last but kept the same pace as if I was on the treadmill (if you work out all the details and math). Pretty sweet!

This is also my PR for 5k this 2013 I think… 37 minutes to complete 5k. It’s not the best time compared to other runners or to my past, but it feels great now! It’s a good steady pace and if I had pushed harder, I could have done it faster. Hello Harry’s 5k next week, be ready to see me at my best!

Tomorrow is going to be another beautiful day out and I’m a little stiff now but I definitely want to get back outside to run some more! I’m glad the neighbours complained; I didn’t run last night on the treadmill because I didn’t want to a nuisance. Instead, I ran outside this morning and I feel wonderful! Hopefully I can get out again for a run, if anything a smaller 30 minute jog or 5 k total. We’ll see what tomorrow has in store.

One more thing I’d like to share. Before running this morning I made a healthy breakfast and watched a very inspirational documentary done by PBS. It is available below. If you have some time this weekend, watch it! 🙂 It’s a good one.

Since my last post, I have been in a very odd state. A vast array of emotions have come and gone. I actually ended up throwing up that night instead of going for a walk. Yesterday, I was pretty bummed out: I’ve received noise complaints of the treadmill in my apartment. I’ve had the treadmill for three months and didn’t throw out the box until Tuesday; I received a complaint on the Wednesday… It’s unfortunate but I’ve been living here for almost three years, it’s time to find a new home where I am welcomed.

Today I saw the dentist and had 1.5 hours of work done on the tooth that’s been giving me some issues. Not in the clear yet, I will be back in two weeks. With the stress of this on my body and doing work from home today, I’m not feeling very well. My stomach still feels a bit off and during my run I was light-headed the entire time.

March 26 Run: 61 minutes, 4.77 miles (7.81 km on Nike+)

This was by far the most challenging run I can think of. It’s the same run as the last two… The last two intervals I was hanging onto the treadmill feeling faint and noticing my headache was more prominent. The entire run, I was in a very negative and dark place. I couldn’t get my mind into the good. In the end I finished it but it didn’t feel as good as the last two runs. I’m terrified since the next run to plan will be 18 minute intervals instead of 12… I really don’t know how I will do this.

I have updated the 10k for Pink plan with a comparison of my plan to theirs. Basically, I’ve changed the times to hit match the distance as the plan expects running a 10 minute mile instead of the 12 minute mile I’m pacing at.

To jump back to earlier this morning, I’ve impulsively signed up for a 5k run. I was super stoked when I signed up thinking this will be great to do prior to the 10k coming up. This 5k is raising money for prostate cancer research and is on April 6.

So, my day started out pretty exciting… Then I started reading other blogs to get inspired… Then I started thinking about all the other runners out there and how I am doing… It isn’t getting any easier. I haven’t found my breath. I haven’t lost weight (and trust me, I’ve eaten a lot better as well). I’m slower than I was before. I am dreading running outside again. I’m terrified of this 5k because of the unknown. What is the route like? What about the hills? What about the sketchy weather?

I don’t mean to be really negative, I just find myself in a rut and almost wanting to quit. I’ve even thought about finishing the 10k then quitting. I don’t know how I got here… Earlier in the week I had the positive mindset, thinking maybe after the 10k, it won’t be enough and I’ll maybe do a half marathon one day…

Well… All in all, I’m trying to get myself out of this funk and excited again…
All that matters is finishing and not stopping… This photo sums it all up.

Hopefully there will be a better next blog, I’ll have completed 10:1 and be in a more positive mental space.

Tomorrow night is ladies night and that means, no run for a Monday. Instead, I went for a nice 5 km walk yesterday and ran today.

March 24 Run: 61 min, 4.77 miles (7.67 km, 8.28 km on Nike+)

Last run I calibrated my Nike+ to the right distance…. Today’s run was the exact same run as the last run but somehow it not only didn’t record the same km as last time, the incorrect 8.28 is 0.10 km more than the last run. Basically, instead of going down, the distance went up! This is definitely odd but that’s ok, still keeping track of my fitness.

I just finished run 9:2 with my alternate timing to hit the distance goals. Because I am doing this, I had to find another app that would set up each run interval to my desired time (unfortunately, my treadmill isn’t smart enough to do this for me). The last two runs, I’ve tested two different free interval apps, Seconds and IntervalTimer. Both have been ok but neither are as appealing as the 10k for Pink app.

It was pretty tough to get myself onto the treadmill today. Spent the day being lazy and didn’t eat at my regular times. I also didn’t eat as much as I should have. Everything just felt a little off. My head said yes you need to do this, my body said no you’re still sore from the last run… After lollygagging around, taking over an hour to change and get myself on.. eventually I did it. Well I ran and I’m hoping my legs function tomorrow for work and ladies night. I’ve stretched quite a bit and will continue to for the rest of the night, and maybe even do another little walk to loosen up before bed. My legs are pretty stiff still from the last run and I’m not sure if physically this is getting any better but mentally I’m telling myself it is!

Oh, I also forgot the best part of today’s run, besides doing it and finishing, I ran the last 12 minutes (mile) with a 0.5% incline. This may seem very little but I’m hoping I can build up the incline as my weakest moments so I can fight through those hills. After walking the 5k yesterday (the same route I ran last year), I remembered how difficult the smallest little hill seemed. Even walking it didn’t feel very nice with my stiff calves. Hills, I don’t hate them at all, I just dread seeing them and having to go up them; but, who doesn’t like a challenge?

Part of my lazy day today was spent shopping – but only related to health and running. In the end, I ended up picking up a few new items for running. I got 3 new sports bras (Stellar Sassafras, I got two pink ones and the back of one is actually cheetah print pink), two running tops, and a pair of capris. All of this was on sale too!!! Everything together (from 3 different shops), less than $100 CAD. Petty awesome! 😀

Hey There!! That’s my longest run to date, both in distance and in duration! How’s that? 5 minutes walk, 12 minute intervals at 5 mph with 1 minute brisk walks in between followed with a 5 minute cool down jog/walk. YEAAAAAHHHHH!!!

As I blog, I am chowing down dinner. Yes, Friday Night is Date night, tonight I had a date and the treadmill is the third wheel. I made a nice healthy dinner for my date to have while I ran. Now I’m munching on dinner and he’s on the treadmill! I couldn’t ask for a better night! I even got my Nike+ Fuelband all set up, so if you’ve got one, add me! I’m already finding it pretty fun and challenging trying to get to my goal before the day ends. We’ll end the night with a walk together to cool down in the freezing cold outside but the crisp night walk will still be my favourite part to do this together.

Okay, back to the running. Tonight I advanced to the 10k for Pink Week 9, Day 1 run. I’ve had to alter the plan a little bit – I’ll be updating the run plan on the other page shortly once I work all the details out. The plan calls for running 10 minute intervals, but after working out the previous few runs, the app wants me to run a 10 minute mile. I’m currently running at 12 minute mile. Since the whole point of the app and this training is to hit a DISTANCE goal of 10 k I’ve decided to adjust my runs to the relative distance the app is assuming I will run. So, the app says walk 5, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 5… I’m only going to adjust the running bits as I have been with the past runs. 10 minute mile means I have to add 2 minutes few every 10 the app tells me to run. Not a problem….

By the time I got to 2.5 miles (a little over half my workout), my legs were burning!!! I think I’ll feel this run tomorrow. If not in my legs then definitely in my core. And you know what the best thing is? This is good pain!! I can handle this pain and WANT this kind of pain. Soreness from working is just such a great feeling. Yes, I dread the fact that I might not be able to walk in two days when this run really kicks in but I know it’s working!! 🙂

Yes, tonight’s run was tough, BUT IT WAS WORTH IT!!! I may not be smiling as I’m focussing on eating and drinking fluids right now but my heart is smiling as big as it can!! 😀

I hope you all had a great Friday night and if not, Carpe Diem!! GO SEIZE THE DAY!!

Today is a “rest” day. I really had in my mind that I would move onto the next run on the plan (just felt extra determined today) but I decided against it. My head’s been pounding and I said I wasn’t going to do two 10k for Pink runs consecutively without a rest day in between.

March 21 Run: 26 minutes, 2.02 miles (3.41 km on Nike+)

After going for a half hour walk, I did lose that energy and the pain in my mouth, jaw, and ear flooded me with grief. Sometimes, it’s just frustrating not being able to do anything about the pain. Since my head had started throbbing I really didn’t want to run but a part of me did, so I did. If I didn’t, I’m sure I’d be laying in bed tonight wishing I had. 20 minutes of running with 3 minutes to warm up and cool down definitely was enough. Challenging but not too strenuous. The entire time I could feel my jaw and head throbbing but I just thought, how much worse I would feel if I had just curled up on the couch; the pain would have seemed worse.

Anyways, today I felt inspired and went out to get the Nike+ Fuel Band. Do any of you have this? I have not synced mine up or anything yet, I’ll do that over the weekend. I’m pretty excited as I feel this will just be another tool to keep me motivated and challenged. I’m pretty competitive so if you have one, let me know so we can be buddies on it. What are your reviews? Should I keep it? Not bother? Was it worth the $$$? Also, If you have the Nike+ Running account set up, then add me there too! Find me via rundmach on Nike+ Running. I know I complain about its inaccuracies but it’s still fun being a little competitive and cheering each other on.

Tonight I blog in extreme excitement!! I have much to say so this may get a little long – be warned. 🙂

March 20 Run: 46 minutes, 3.70 miles (6.41 km on Nike+)

First off, WOHOO!! I ran 5 KM straight on the treadmill in 36 minutes and 20 seconds!! Second, I’ve blogged about Nike+ quite a bit and it’s obvious, something is wrong with it, 3.70 miles is really 5.95 km. This is almost half a full km off. That’s a pretty big difference when training for a 10 k! Third, back to the good, I ran 36:20 with the last minute upping from 5 mph to 5.2 and the last 30 seconds going up to 5.5 mph! 5 minutes warm up then a 5 minute cool down. Forth, I still had energy to keep going!! Fifth, I have been insanely ill today. I have a tooth infection and have been on meds for two days now. My head has been killing me (jaw/ear/mouth/temple) to the point I was smashing my head into my desk today when a co-worker walked by and thought I was just overwhelmed with work. Lastly, I didn’t even think I was going to run! After work I went for a half hour walk thinking that would be it since I felt soo sick (by 6 pm I had already taken 6 T2’s today). I came back from the walk with insane energy, head felt good, stomach a bit off still, but all in all, I had this determination to succeed tonight. Boy did I ever rise to the occassion! WOOOOHOOO!

Although Nike+ is wrong in terms of distance, it’s still a good relative comparison over time as it is what I’m using to run on my iPod nano. Today, all of my running KMs averaged BELOW 7 minutes per km!!!! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen those numbers and I’m so excited to be reuinted with these results. COME ON NICE WEATHER!! I can’t wait to run the 5 KM route around my block….TWICE! 😀

Thank you runat49 for nominating me!!! It’s a huge honour to be nominated for this! I love my blog and I love reading everyone else’s blogs that keep inspiring me to blog and run.

What is the Liebster award? Find out at strivebalance – Karen does a pretty great job at keeping it short and sweet.

This is a bit tougher for me as all I seem to blog about is running so let me give this a go and give you 11 random facts about me that I haven’t shared yet.

I have been working for the same company for almost 9 years now (since August 2004).

I just bought a complete new set of Golf clubs – I’ve never golfed in my life but I will start this summer!

My mom made my dad go through the Burger King drive through when she went into labour with me – this must be why I love fast food! (runat49, I thought you’d like this)

I am a hopeless romantic; I am not married but can’t wait to be.

I have earned honours in my Bachelor of Commerce Degree majoring in Operations with a minor in Human Resource studies.

I earned the President’s National Scholarship, at the University I earned that degree, for all 4 years. Only 5 students earn this award each year.

I set extremely high expectations for myself and beat myself down too hard too often.

As a kid I hated running but loved all other sports (I saw nothing great in running – boy was I wrong!)

I have a tattoo on my right wrist that says LIVE ♢ LEARN ♢ GROW

I find it easier to do nice things for others and treat others than to do the same for myself.

I am super happy for Danni who recently won The Biggest Loser season 13. I have been cheering for her the entire time.

Now, the other part of this is to answer 11 questions that I have been asked.

Who most influenced your life and why?My mom – she’s a warrior with insane stength: divorced, raised my brothers and me on her own without child support, had the strength to walk away, … I could go on but I think that paints a good picture. She has taught me to be strong, determined, and to never settle.

Why did you start blogging?To raise awareness for the charities I am running for, and keep myself dedicated and accountable to running.

What do you like most about blogging?Receiving Likes, followers, and visitors – this stuff means a lot to me. Also, I am able to be completely honest with my feelings, track my progress, and hold myself accountable for not doing it (because if I don’t blog, that means I didn’t run).

What is your favorite movie and why?FIGHT CLUB – great plot, the movie was extremely well done (better than the book in my opinion) and we all have another side to us that we just don’t know about.

What is your favorite book and why?The Outsiders – this book taught me a lot as a child…

What was your favorite subject in school?No, it wasn’t gym… It was Math! I still love problem solving to this day. It’s kind of my job now. 🙂

What is your biggest goal for 2013?To complete two 10k races and raise money for good charities!

Who do you admire most?I admire Terry Fox. A man who ran across Canada after losing a leg to cancer to build awareness deserves admiration from the world. I couldn’t be happier to run for the Terry Fox Foundation in September.

What do you consider your best quality?I’ve been told I am too kind, I wear my heart out on my sleeve and always go above and beyond for others. I think these are pretty awesome qualities to have.

Where would you move if you could move anywhere in the world?Jasper (the Rocky Mountains) if I didn’t have to work. I’d snowboard all winter long, and run through the mountains and forests all summer.

What makes you happy?This one’s easy, RUNNING! But also family, food, snowboarding, and sleep also make me happy. 🙂 .

FInally, I nominate these bloggers that have inspired me, check them out:

Last night I missed dinner. I fell asleep around 8. Not sure if it’s from the pain I’ve been dealing with or just the extra exercise I had done yesterday. Went for some big walks and had the larger run. Today is an off day from the 10k plan. Got up and went for a walk. Came home and needed some more!

March 17 Run: 20 minutes, 1.64 miles (2.68 km on Nike+)

I did a short but tougher run. A full 15 minutes at 5.3 mph. I know, slow rest days should be just that but I don’t quite consider this a rest day. Even though it isn’t a day on the plan, it’s still a day to exercise. Besides, I kind of want some junk food so I want to feel like I’ve earned it and never feel guilty for eating what I’d like.

It’s Sunday and I hope you are enjoying the day! I’m off to enjoy some fresh salmon I have waiting for me in the oven. Yum!

Yesterday was my cheat day. At work we had Pizza and Beer for lunch. I had 5 small square slices of delicious pizza, a muffin, a cookie, and kettle corn popcorn. On the plus side I didn’t have any beer! I went for a bigger walk last night as well as planned to run… That plan failed, but I woke up this morning and ran.

March 16 Run: 43 minutes, 3.36 miles, (5.75 km on Nike+)

This was a very challenging run. After the 5 minute warm up walk I was already exhausted and wanted to stop… Every minute dragged on of running. Luckily I found encouragement and inspiration. I had to force the bad negative thoughts into positive ones. Not there’s still 2 miles to go, instead, I’ve done a mile already! It took a lot to celebrate the wins but with everyone’s support and knowing the positive reinforcements around me, I trekked on and finished the run!

Not to complain some more, but to add to my knee still being messed up, I’ve been having insane jaw/ear/head pains. It’s been so bad I wake up in pain at night. Sometimes I just want to smash my face into a wall to make it better. I’m only bringing this up now because it’s the only thing on my mind as the pain is distracting my thoughts. It’s been over two weeks of this. I think I’ll be going to a walk in clinic today to see what’s going on.

Anyways, the next run is 5k… After today’s run, I’m a little fearful. I hope the weather turns around and I can do the 5k outside. I am beginning to love the treadmill though: it pushes me to regulate my speed, I avoid pushing any buttons now which means I never stop until the plan says I should, music is much more enjoyable and easier to control over wifi (using online radio) and I have the visual of my iPad sitting in front of me counting every minute down.

On another note, I will need to work on rebuilding my music folders and a few 10k running playlists for when I start running outside again. I get bored of music quickly and need to change it up pretty regularly as I can listen to anything but find it hard to pull energy from repetitive playlists. What do you run to?

Tonight was my night off. My plan, as flexible as it may seem, is running the 10K for Pink program 3 times a week, and never twice in a row. I started the night off after getting home from work by going out for a brisk 20 minute walk…

March 13 Short Run: 13 minutes, 1.11 miles (1.77 km on Nike+)

I couldn’t NOT run tonight. After having a light dinner, I started preparing some fruits for work tomorrow. It wasn’t until 10 past 9 I realized, I HAVE to run. The walk wasn’t enough; Just a short run, enough to get my heart rate up and feel good.

I walked for 1.5 minutes, ran 5.6 mph for 10 minutes, and walked another 1.5 minutes. Yes, I upped my speed! (Don’t worry, I didn’t push myself too hard, just testing what I can really do). Off to go outside and do a proper cool down walk.

It’s getting warmer here but tonight I chose to run on the treadmill. The weekend was nice, but I chose not to run. I did go for a couple walks but I chose to sit around and be lazy. I did choose to run tonight. I’ve chosen to walk every day, just not run. I have not mentally reached that state yet where I can make time to run, instead I’ve made excuses. I am working on this!

Some days are tougher than others. Mondays have normally been my easiest day to get myself to run and be the fastest I can be. Somehow, yesterday, I broke down instead. It really hit me. I’m not old but I am getting older and my body is slowing down. I’ve consistently put on weight year over year. I’m losing energy, feeling lazy, and lacking enthusiasm to staying in shape. Last night was very hard…

There are only 60 days left to the run! Please remember, I am not only doing this for my health but I am trying to fundraise to send sick children to camp. I’ve been collecting pennies at work and trying to raise money wherever I can. I’ll also be matching the donations I raise in pennies and change at work. If you’re in Canada, you know the penny is being put to rest. If it’s not too much, please, collect your coins, deposit them, and donate to the charity: Donate to Camp Oochigeas. Even if you’re in another country, send over a $1, the charity is secure and takes major credit cards.

I’m not asking for much. Just the acknowledgement of your support. So like my post, follow my blog, donate to the charity, leave an inspiring comment, or do nothing (even your virtual footprint of visiting my page is enough!). Every little bit you do counts and helps push me on.

All day I have been stoked that I’d be running tonight. After the last run, I couldn’t be more excited to defeat today’s run. Made a nice dinner after work, a small piece of baked chicken on some salad, mmm.

March 6 Run: 40 minutes, 3.11 miles (5.14 km on Nike+)

What a challenging run tonight! Although the run was tough, my legs felt stiff from Monday, my stomach was tight and sore, but I’m super glad I ran! I finished the run. I did all 2.5 miles on 5 mph straight. Wohoo!!

Thanks for stopping by! I’d like to take a quick minute to let you know, I’m grateful for your “likes” and comments, and even just visiting my blog. The fact that you came here to read this post means a lot to me. It is what fuels me to keep going and gives me a reason why I cannot stop. I am ultimately running for charity and to improve my health, but I couldn’t do it without your support. Without being accountable to the viewers and followers of this blog, I wouldn’t be able to keep pushing myself sometimes.

~Thank You~

February 27 Run: 40 minutes, 3.1 miles (5.13 km Nike +)

Tonight’s run was great! Extremely CHALLENGING!! I could barely make it to the 1st full mile running but somehow I just pulled through and did the 2.5 miles straight in 30 minutes! Wohoo! It was definitely hard. Near the end of the run, before the cool down, I could feel my entire stomach tightening up and telling me to stop but I kept going. 5 mph with 0 incline.

The worst thing right now is that my knee kills me OFF of the treadmill. It hasn’t gotten any better for the last few weeks when I get up to walk. I am still stretching and walking every day but my knee still gives out when I stand after sitting for a while. Not sure what to do here, my doctor’s in another city… it’s such a dull pinching pain, but it’s not life threatening…

The best thing right now is that I completed 5 km today with 10 minutes of walking. You know what that means? I can get to 5 km running in probably 35 minutes!! Can’t wait to get there in 5 more runs (according to the 10k for Pink plan)!!!! The plan does want me to run 5 k in 30 minutes but I am set on finishing the 10k in May, not setting a record, haha.
I’m also super excited because run 7:2 and 7:3 are the same as today. This means I get more time to practice and run better at this pace.

Mondays always seem to be a tough day but I always find myself wanting to run more on a Monday night. It was 9 PM when I got on the treadmill. Must be the love of running I have to work all day and fight off the bag of chips I was going to eat for dinner; instead I got up and ran.

I just finished running 6:3 of the running plan on my iPad’s 10K for Pink. The reason I’m bringing this in is because my iPad’s 6:3 is actually different from my iPod’s 6:3 (but it’s the same app!). A little confused at this difference since my iPad said to run 2 miles straight while my iPod said to run 2.25 miles. I didn’t realize there was a difference; I ran 2 miles straight thinking I was doing the distance (over the time).

February 25 Run: 34 minutes, 2.59 miles (4.44 km on Nike+)

I am super stoked I ran for 24 minutes straight (2 miles) at 5 mph (0 incline). I’m 1/3 of the way to my goal!!! The app initially said to run 2 miles in 20 minutes, on my other device it says to run 2.25 miles in 22 minutes. So, I’ve gone for the distance but am a bit let down because I definitely could have done the 2.25 miles! What a shame for not knowing. It is great joy knowing that I feel the confidence that I can do the 2.25 miles. The next run (7:1) is doing 2.5 miles straight in 25 minutes. I won’t be doing this in 25 minutes, I’m estimating 30 minutes.

6 runs away from 5 km! Averaging around 7 minutes / km means I can do this in 35 minutes on the treadmill! I’m excited!!! This also means that once I transfer this outdoors, I can do 5k faster than that! So stoked to get there!!! Can’t wait to see where I’ll be in 2.5 months at 10k!

Another week has come and gone. I’ve let myself slip off of running yet again for 7 days! How is this possible? Sometimes I really just need to be reminded of how much I love running! Every day this past week I’ve procrastinated and made excuses. I’m even on vacation this week doing nothing! There are people busier than me out there making time to run. Every night I’ve gone to bed regretting I didn’t get up to run. Today I woke up and ran! No more regrets. Who can live a life full of wishful thinking? It’s the actions that count.

Of course, once I got on the treadmill, the joy of running all came rushing back!! This came all too quickly and was such a sweet, wonderful feeling.

February 21 Run: 37 minutes, 2.79 miles (4.73 km on Nike+)

Today’s run was not hard at all and yet I ran a little faster than any other time I’ve been sticking to the 10k plan. Maybe last week’s run with the group (at a faster pace and outside) really did do more than just a run. I stuck to the distance today. Running plan for Week 6 day 2 says Workout for 33 minutes (5 minute warm up, 1 mile/10 min run, walk 3 min/0.25 mile, 1 mile/10 min run, 5 minute cool down). Since the last few runs have been short, I did the distance in running which took me 12 minutes to run a mile (5 mph). I don’t mind that it took me longer. I almost wanted to keep going after the first 12 minute and not stop to walk 3 minutes. Quickly, I realized I should take the walk so I can run the next 12 minutes, good idea!

This just makes my heart melt! ❤

Tomorrow I spend the day at Blue Mountain snowboarding, wohoo!!! This is not my favourite place to go especially on a Friday of reading week (spring break in Canada) but I’m still excited to ride!!! I truly love to snowboard. I’m just a beginner but just like Running, I don’t need to be a superstar to love it! It’s going to be awesome!!!!

On the other positive note, I’ve been going for a walk every day this year. I’ve also been making sure I do more lately since my knee is still messed up and hurts in a slight discomforting pinching kind of way… No help… Walking is still good exercise!! 🙂

I’m excited to run outside again and I hope this -18°C weather goes away soon! It’s almost too cold to walk outside with the windchill, let alone think about running! Kudos to all those runners I keep seeing in the area when I’m out for a walk and you’re embracing the cold running like a mad man/woman.

It’s been 10 days since my last run, today, I ran! … It was really a jog but it still counts!

February 11 Run/Jog: 34 minutes, 2.26 miles (3.79km on Nike+)

My knee is still not recovered but I couldn’t take it anymore! I needed to run! So tonight, I got changed (9:30 pm), stretched out my legs extra longer than usual, walked at 3-3.5 mph and ran each interval at 4.5 mph. This is the slowest I’ve ever “ran” since starting this plan but it was nice. It was easy but still very painful on my knee; I ran with a limp and wasn’t trying to. I am taking it a bit easy and not push myself too hard. Slow and steady…

I know I may not be running at the speed I need to be to stay on plan BUT I am still running. As long as I keep running, I know I will get to the finish line!

Taking it slower was great. Tonight I got the chance to practice breathing. This is how you know I’m a beginner runner still, I don’t breathe properly. My friend Robert has always told me to learn to breathe and running will be much easier. He’s able to run forever at an easy pace because of his breathing. I don’t breathe well for the fact that I’m a chest breather and runners are recommended to breathe through their bellies. It still hasn’t clicked in my mind to just naturally breathe through my stomach; I’ve been practicing my breathing even off of the treadmill.

I hope that the next run is better on my knee and I can go a little bit faster. Until then…

Good night for now 🙂

rundmach

p.s. I forgot to talk about how my snowboarding went the other night. I love snowboarding! It was amazing and it was just puking snow outside! I didn’t hurt myself EXCEPT for being on the chairlift… somehow, I got smoked at the chairlift getting on. I wish it was recorded, it looked like something that would have been on the funniest home videos. It wasn’t funny at the time when I fell and smashed my head on the ground but after I opened my eyes and was thankful I wore a helmet, it was funny. I hurt my neck in that fall from a bit of whip lash (I’m guessing from my head being thrown up off the ground after the impact). So, I hope this let’s you know a bit more about me, Snowboarding is the other love of my life and although it has been a while, the love never dies. This should also give you a better understanding that I am pretty accident prone (trampoline injury, snowboarding injury)… I’m pretty clumsy sometimes… most of the time!

Hi,
It’s been 6 days since my last run. My knee is still in a bit of pain when it’s extended or fully bent. I don’t know what to do. I’m sad I can’t run because I don’t want to force it. I’ve been out for some big walks hoping to help but it doesn’t seem to. Stretching is helping a little bit, but not enough.

Tonight I am excited to go snowboarding but I am scared. I’m not sure how long I’ll last and my lead leg is my injured one. I’m worried about riding but I’m excited to get out on the hills
again. It’s been two years since I’ve been snowboarding but I have never fallen out of love with it. Once you love, you love forever. There is never a past tense to love. Running will always be a love even if we’re taking a break right now. I hope this break doesn’t last long! I miss you running, even when it’s settling on a treadmill!

This picture made me laugh so hard and it’s kind of true. I hope you enjoy it too! 🙂

It’s Friday and I didn’t have to work today! It’s been a bit overwhelming at work so I decided to use up some vacation time and make this week short. I’ve scheduled quite a few other days off for the month of February. Can you believe it?! It’s February 1st already! Where did January* go? I guess it just ran past me! ha-ha…

This morning I didn’t sleep in too much. Woke up maybe an hour later than I normally would for work. Had a bit of breakfast and went for a walk in the -16°C weather but it was nice and sunny. It felt great being outside during daylight! With the crazy Canadian weather, most days, I get to work and it’s light out but there’s no sun and by the time I leave work, it’s dark out.

My last run definitely was a challenge because today my legs are a little sore.

I had a lot of plans for today and didn’t get through them all but I did get to run!

February 1 Run: 30 minutes, 2.39 miles (3.6km on Nike+)

Today I kind of followed plan. I did the run time but I didn’t do the distance… On the app, the time went 5 minute warm up, 20 minute run, 5 minute cool down. Instead of doing the 2.25 miles in the 20 minutes, I did 1.76 miles. At first I went into this run thinking I would do the distance regardless of the time but once the app changed and said to start walking, I noticed I had another 1/2 mile to go, so I listened to my aching body and walked.

The slightly troublesome part is that I didn’t run on an incline today and ran at 5.3 mph, hoping this “easier” pace would have gotten me to run the extra ~5 minutes I needed to get to the 2.25 goal.

I want to repeat this interval until I can run 2.25 miles straight before going further. This sets me a little behind because I won’t be running tomorrow (going to be playing trampoline dodgeball!). I’ll be creeping into next week’s plan as I repeat week 5.

I’ve decided even though I want to do the 2.25 mile straight before moving on, I will just stick to the plan (unless somehow I find time to run Sunday).
Week 6, day 1 and 2 seem a bit easier with walking intervals. At Week 6, day 3, I will be running 2.25 miles straight. This time when I get to this day, I will do the distance and not the time! 🙂

I’m excited for the weekend: Trampoline dodgeball Saturday, all you can eat birthday buffet lunch Sunday, and a big family dinner Sunday night! Sunday will definitely be a write off day but I’m excited to see this side of my family (we see each other about once or twice a year) and rest!

Tonight I repeated the last run plan hoping I could get a bit more comfortable running it a little faster. Somehow, the numbers just don’t make sense to me anymore. Either I am just a sucky runner or Nike+ and my Treadmill are from two different universes.

January 30 Run: 31 minutes, 2.34 miles (3.6 km on Nike+)

Last year, I had come to the conclusion that Nike+ was wrong no matter what I did. I thought this may have just been because I was running outside. Tonight, I ran the same as I did the last run, BUT increased my speed from 5.3 mph to 5.4 mph for both of the 8 minute running intervals. Somehow, on Nike+ my average speed went from 8’14″/km down to 8’36″/km today. Treadmill says I ran the same distance of 2.34 miles both times while Nike+ says I did 3.61km today and 3.76 km last run. Well, I am puzzled but all that matters is I got on that treadmill and ran. Hopefully it was enough that I can advance to the next run (5:3), which is a little scary…

Maybe I was running at a slower pace, the second 8 minute interval felt like death! Maybe I didn’t let my dinner digest enough before running. Maybe I just can’t be running at 5.4 mph. Maybe I just need a heart rate monitor. Maybe I am just not trying hard enough. Maybe I’m over thinking this. Maybe I’m concentrating on the numbers too much. Maybe I just need to stop thinking. Maybe, maybe, maybe. So many possibilities but one thing is true, I finished the run. All I need to do is just RUN.